Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or not: For us, it’s always taco time! One of the best things about tacos is that you don’t need a long shopping list or any sort of kitchen acrobatics. Our fav taco is one you can whip up in an instant. With a simple bean and cheese filling, this taco is quick to make and mouthwateringly topped with fresh onion, herbs, and oh yeah, probably the most delicious chipotle sauce of all time.

Spicy, creamy, crunchy: Crispy bean and cheese tacos

Tacos are real comfort food for us. Especially when they get that satisfying crunch after being pan-fried. Spicy bean mash combines with melted cheese to make the whole thing so indescribably flavorful. A perennial favorite, this meatless taco version is every bit as delicious as the classic. In fact, if you’re going all-in and embracing a fully plant-based diet, you can easily swap out all the dairy for vegan alternatives. Whether you choose cow or no cow, the taste remains monumental. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in!

First up is making the chipotle mayo. Mix your chipotle salsa with mayo, yogurt, cilantro, and lime juice. Then fry the beans with garlic and spices and mash them into a chunky puree. Now comes the fun part: assembling the tacos. Spread some chipotle mayo on the tortillas, as well as some of the bean mixture. Then sprinkle everything with cheese, onions, and chopped cilantro. Fold the tacos and fry them in a pan with a little oil until crispy on both sides. Now all that’s left to do is enjoy!

You can, of course, enjoy your crispy bean and cheese tacos right away without any extra accoutrements. Or if you’re in the mood to more, these tacos are a great team player that do well with typical friends such as homemade guacamole or salsa verde. A Mexican tomao salad with corn will also prove to be a delight. For drinks, might we recommend a virgin mojito? Enjoy!

After this recipe, you can’t think of anything but tacos? We get it. Then you should definitely try our breakfast bacon tacos or spicy ground beef taco ring with homemade salsa. If you are looking to veer off the beaten path, check out our cheesecake tacos!

CRISPY BEAN AND CHEESE TACOS

Prep time: 25 mins
Total time: 25 mins
Servings: 2

INGREDIENTS

1 organic lime
1 bunch fresh cilantro
1 shallot
2 cloves garlic
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp Greek yogurt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Your preferred (chipotle) salsa
Salt and pepper to taste
Canola oil or any neutral oil, for frying
1 (15 ounce) can black beans
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/4 cup water
6 small tortillas
3/4 cup grated cheese of your choice

INSTRUCTIONS

Juice the lime. Wash, dry, and finely chop the cilantro. Peel and finely chop the shallot and garlic.
To make the chipotle mayo, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, a bit of the cilantro, garlic powder, chipotle salsa, and 2 tsp lime juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat some of the oil in a large pan. Briefly sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the beans, cumin, coriander, and water and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, always to tase of course. Mash the beans with a wooden spoon or potato masher until a slightly chunky mixture is formed.
Spread chipotle sauce on the tortillas. Spoon some of the bean mixture onto one half of each tortilla. Top with chopped shallots, cilantro, and shredded cheese. Fold the tortillas in half over the filling and press gently to seal.
Heat more of the oil over medium heat. Fry the tacos until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Serve the tacos with the rest of the chipotle mayo.