These crispy black bean tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal! The black beans are packed with flavor and when wrapped in a crunchy shell, they make a delicious snack or dinner.
Honestly, what’s better than a taco night? I love piling them high with toppings like cheese and salsa. They’re quick to make, so I always keep some shells on hand for last-minute cravings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient and tasty. For a fresher option, cook dried black beans and season them yourself. If you prefer, pinto beans can also work well here!
Cheese: A shredded cheese blend adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Tortillas: Small corn tortillas give the best crunch. If you’re not a fan of corn, flour tortillas can work too, but they won’t be as crispy. You could also use gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Seasonings: These add lots of flavor. Feel free to mix them up! You might try taco seasoning for a different twist. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or even some cayenne.
How Do You Fry Tacos to Get Them Crispy?
Frying tacos is all about getting that crispy golden texture without burning them. Here are the steps to achieve crispy perfection:
- Use enough oil in the skillet, about 1/4 inch deep, to fully submerge the edges of the tacos.
- Heat the oil over medium heat. Test if it’s hot enough by dropping a small piece of tortilla in the oil; it should bubble.
- Carefully add the folded tacos to the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Flip gently and cook the other side until crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
These tips will help you get those deliciously crispy tacos every time! Enjoy your meal! 🌮
How to Make Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn tortillas
- 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, diced avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have crispy tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bean Filling:
Start by mashing the black beans in a medium bowl with a fork. Leave some beans whole for a nice texture. Then, add the shredded cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a thick, tasty filling.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a tortilla and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the black bean mixture onto one half. Fold the tortilla over to create a taco shape and gently press to seal the edges. You can also moisten the edges slightly with a bit of water if you want a tighter seal.
3. Fry the Tacos:
In a large skillet, heat about 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; it should bubble), carefully add the folded tacos. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted.
4. Serve Your Tacos:
Once crispy, use tongs to transfer the tacos to a plate lined with paper towels, allowing excess oil to drain. Garnish your tacos with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Feel free to add optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or diced avocado to take them to the next level!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful black bean tacos! They’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Beans for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute black beans with pinto beans or refried beans. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste!
Can I Make These Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble and fry the tacos fresh for the best texture!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to crisp them back up or zap them in the microwave, though they might not be as crispy.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegan?
Yes! To make these tacos vegan, simply use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese entirely. They’ll still be flavorful with the black bean filling and spices!
