These Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!) are a delightful way to enjoy a meatless meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos feature a satisfying black bean filling seasoned with Mexican spices, all enveloped in crispy tortillas. The best part? You won’t believe how crispy they get without frying! Serve them with an array of toppings and dipping sauces for a fun and flavorful feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, these tacos can be on your table in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of black beans and spices delivers a deliciously satisfying taste.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your tacos with various toppings, making each bite unique.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Made with wholesome ingredients, these tacos are plant-based and gluten-free.
- No Frying Needed: Achieve that perfect crunch without the extra oil from frying.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious tacos.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool simplifies blending the filling, ensuring a smooth yet chunky texture.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing the bean filling, enhancing its flavor through cooking techniques.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for crisping up the tacos in the oven.
- Spatula: Useful for flipping the tacos without breaking them, keeping them intact while cooking.
Ingredients
- 19 ounce can black beans (2-3 cups)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (sriracha or chipotle tabasco sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (more to taste)
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- cilantro or parsley, chopped
- green onions, sliced (optional)
- dairy-free cheese
- diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- avocado slices or guacamole
- non-dairy sour cream
- pickled red onions
- creamy cole slaw
- romaine lettuce ribbons
- dipping sauces (see post for ideas)
How to Make Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450º F if you are using the oven-baked method for cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Beans
Drain and rinse the black beans under cold water to remove excess sodium.
Step 3: Mix the Bean Filling
In a food processor, blend together:
1. The rinsed black beans,
2. Salsa,
3. Taco seasoning,
4. Chipotle pepper,
5. Garlic powder,
6. Salt.
You can leave it slightly chunky if desired. Stir in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.
Step 4: Sear the Bean Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add sliced green onions and a sprinkle of salt:
1. Cook until fragrant.
2. Add in the bean filling.
3. Cook for about five minutes undisturbed to develop a crust.
4. Flip chunks gently to ensure even cooking.
If too thick, add more salsa or a splash of water.
Step 5: Fill the Tacos
Take flour tortillas and scoop a few tablespoons of bean filling onto one side:
1. Optionally top with dairy-free cheese.
2. Fold over each tortilla.
3. Repeat until all filling is used (about 6–8 tacos).
Step 6: Bake the Tacos
Brush or rub oil on the outside of each tortilla:
1. Place them on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 6–8 minutes.
3. Flip with spatula and bake another 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 7: Prepare Toppings
While the tacos are baking, prepare any optional toppings and dipping sauces of your choice.
Step 8: Assemble and Enjoy!
Serve your crispy black bean tacos immediately with various toppings and dipping sauces! Enjoy your meatless delight!
How to Serve Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
These Crispy Black Bean Tacos are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can elevate your taco night by adding a variety of toppings and sauces that cater to different tastes.
Classic Toppings
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a juicy burst to your tacos.
- Cilantro or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances flavor and freshness.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the crispy texture perfectly.
Sauces and Dips
- Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole pairs wonderfully with the spiced filling.
- Non-Dairy Sour Cream: Adds a tangy creaminess without dairy.
- Salsa Verde: A zesty option that brings extra flavor to your tacos.
Crunchy Additions
- Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the filling.
- Creamy Cole Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness to each bite.
How to Perfect Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
To ensure your Crispy Black Bean Tacos turn out just right, follow these helpful tips for a delightful experience.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Don’t Overfill the Tacos: Keeping the filling modest will help prevent spills and make them easier to handle.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensuring your oven is hot before baking gives you that perfect crispiness.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Adjusting spices allows you to customize flavors according to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Black Bean Tacos can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that will complement your tacos beautifully.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime is a classic side that pairs perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add heartiness to your meal, making it more filling.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime for a sweet crunch.
- Chips and Salsa: Traditional tortilla chips served with homemade salsa are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies provide an excellent contrast to the crispy tacos.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with fresh ingredients adds nutrition and variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!), it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
Ignoring the seasoning: Make sure to taste your bean filling and adjust the taco seasoning. Under-seasoned tacos can be bland, so keep adding until it’s just right.
Overfilling the tortillas: If you pack too much filling into each tortilla, they will be difficult to fold and may break. Stick to a few tablespoons per taco for best results.
Neglecting the cooking method: Ensure you preheat your oven or skillet properly before cooking. A hot surface helps achieve that golden crispy texture without frying.
Skipping the toppings: Toppings make a big difference! Don’t skip out on fresh ingredients like avocado or salsa, as they add flavor and texture.
Using cold tortillas: Warm your tortillas slightly before filling them. Cold tortillas can crack when folded, leading to messy tacos.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
- Place unbaked tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350º F. Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds intervals until warm; this may soften the shells.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for even warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!) that might help you while preparing this delicious meal.
Can I use other beans instead of black beans?
Yes! Feel free to use pinto beans or kidney beans for a different twist while keeping the recipe vegan!
How do I make these tacos gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. This ensures everyone can enjoy these tasty tacos!
What toppings pair well with Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)?
Popular options include diced tomatoes, avocado slices, non-dairy sour cream, pickled onions, and fresh herbs like cilantro.
Can I meal prep these tacos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it separately from the tortillas. Just assemble right before serving for optimal crispiness.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!) are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and sauces based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try for your next meatless meal; you won’t be disappointed!
Crispy Black Bean Tacos (so easy + vegan!)
Crispy Black Bean Tacos are a delightful vegan dish that combines flavor, texture, and health in one satisfying meal. These tacos are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, featuring a scrumptious black bean filling seasoned with zesty Mexican spices, all wrapped in perfectly crispy tortillas—without the need for frying! Serve them with an array of toppings like creamy avocado, fresh salsa, and zesty non-dairy sour cream to create a fun and flavorful taco night.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 19-ounce can black beans
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, non-dairy cheese, diced tomatoes, pickled red onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Rinse and drain the black beans. Blend them with salsa, taco seasoning, chipotle pepper, garlic powder, and salt in a food processor until slightly chunky. Stir in chopped cilantro.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté green onions until fragrant, then add bean mixture and cook for about five minutes.
- Fill each tortilla with a few tablespoons of the bean filling and fold them over.
- Brush the outside of each tortilla with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble tacos with your choice of toppings and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
