These Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal! Filled with flavorful black beans and topped with fresh veggies, they have a nice crunch that everyone loves.
Who doesn’t love a taco that’s both easy to make and delicious? I like to pile on extra toppings like avocado and salsa for some extra yum. What’s your favorite way to dress yours up?
Making these tacos is quick and simple—just mix, fill, and fry! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is short but the munchies are big!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Black beans are the star of this recipe! They’re packed with protein and fiber. If you’re out of canned beans, feel free to use dried beans that you’ve soaked and cooked. Pinto beans work well too for a different flavor.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend cheese adds creaminess and richness. If you’re dairy-free, swap it out with vegan cheese or even some guacamole for added creaminess!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give these tacos their warm kick. If you want it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder flavor, you can reduce the chili powder.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and add a nice flavor. You can use flour tortillas if you prefer, but they won’t be as crispy. Look for gluten-free options if needed.
How Do I Get My Tacos Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch on your tacos is all about the frying technique. Here are a few tips for ensuring they come out crispy:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—this prevents the tortillas from soaking up too much oil. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle right away.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry a couple at a time for even cooking and crispiness.
- Drain extra oil by placing the tacos on paper towels right after frying. This step makes a big difference!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously crispy taco that everyone will enjoy!
Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Cooking oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings: salsa, avocado slices, sour cream, diced onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus about 10 minutes for frying. Total cooking time is around 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Bean Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or potato masher until they are mostly smooth, but still a bit chunky. This texture will add some substance to your tacos!
2. Mix in the Flavors:
Add the shredded cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the bowl with the mashed beans. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where all those delicious flavors come together!
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil over medium heat. The oil needs to be hot enough for frying, so test it by dropping a small piece of tortilla in—if it sizzles, it’s ready!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the black bean mixture onto one half. Fold the tortilla over to create a semi-circle. This shape offers the best crunchy taco experience!
5. Fry the Tacos:
Carefully place the folded tacos into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once they are done, carefully remove the tacos from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crispy black bean tacos garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Feel free to add any of your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado slices, or sour cream to make it even tastier!
Enjoy these crunchy, flavorful black bean tacos as a fun and satisfying vegetarian meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned Beans?
Yes! If you’re using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before mashing. Canned beans save time and are convenient, but cooked dried beans will work well too!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños into the black bean mixture or sprinkle cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes before frying. Serving with a spicy salsa can also enhance the heat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegan?
Absolutely! Just replace the shredded cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or feel free to skip the cheese altogether. The flavor of the seasoned black beans will still shine through!
