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Crispy Black Bean Tacos

Crispy Black Bean Tacos: A Quick Crunchy Delight at Home

Deliciously easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos, a gluten-free and vegetarian favorite bursting with flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Provides moisture and helps achieve a crispy texture.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; can substitute with shallots or green onions.
  • 2 cloves garlic Enhances flavor; finely chopped or grated for potency.
  • 1 optional chipotle pepper Adds smokiness and heat; use adobo sauce for less spice or omit for milder flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Thickens and enriches the filling; can substitute with crushed tomatoes.
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder Brings warmth and spice; adjust quantity based on taste preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Provides a warm, earthy flavor; essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds depth and smokiness; can substitute with regular paprika.
  • 2 cups black beans Base of the filling; can use canned or cooked dried beans.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with water if necessary.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice Brightens the filling; fresh lime preferred.
For Assembly
  • 8 small corn tortillas The perfect wrapper for the filling; ensure they are pliable.
  • 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese Melts beautifully; for vegan options, choose non-dairy cheese.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Microwave

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare your baking sheet with a light drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Sauté diced yellow onion in a splash of olive oil for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and tender.
  3. Mix in finely chopped garlic and chopped chipotle pepper, cooking for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
  5. Add black beans, vegetable broth, and lime juice. Mash some beans with a fork and simmer for about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Wrap corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds to keep them pliable.
  7. Fill each warmed tortilla with the black bean mixture and cheese, fold, and place on the oiled baking sheet.
  8. Bake the tacos for 8-10 minutes until golden. Flip and bake for another 8-10 minutes until crisp.
  9. Allow the baked tacos to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with toppings like guacamole or salsa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 12gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Expert tips include prepping ingredients first, keeping tortillas warm, and ensuring the bean mixture is thick to avoid sogginess.

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