If you’re craving a flavorful, satisfying, and plant-based meal, these Crispy Black Bean Tacos with Vegan Crema & Green Sauce are the perfect meal!
This recipe is easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and full of vibrant flavors. It’s my favorite way to transform a cheap can of beans.
Whether you’re hosting taco night or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these tacos will definitely hit the spot!
Healthy Shortcuts
When you’re looking to create a clean, vegan, and gluten-free meal without spending hours in the kitchen, Siete grain-free tortillas and green enchilada sauce are a game-changer!!
These products are not only super convenient, but they also fit seamlessly into a healthy, plant-based lifestyle. I have been using them for years, especially been gluten free and I love to have them on hand.
Siete tortillas are a fantastic gluten-free option made from clean ingredients like chickpea, cassava flour, coconut flour, and almond flour. They hold up beautifully without getting soggy—especially when you crisp them in the skillet with a light spray of avocado oil.
You can also make these with these corn tortillas for a gluten free option!
Hot Tip: Add Kombu Seaweed to Your Beans for Extra Health Benefits
Want to take your crispy black bean tacos to the next level? Try adding kombu—a type of seaweed—to your black beans as they cook. Kombu isn’t just for making flavorful broths; it’s a nutrient-packed addition that can enhance your beans’ taste and nutritional profile.
This is a hack I learned years ago in Ayurvedic cooking and I’ve been doing it ever since.
Why Add Kombu to Beans?
- Boosts Mineral Content: Kombu is rich in essential minerals like iodine, magnesium, and calcium, which support thyroid health, muscle function, and bone health. Beans, though high in fiber and protein, can be low in some minerals, so adding kombu is a great way to balance the nutritional profile of your meal.
- Improves Digestion: Kombu contains enzymes that help break down the complex sugars in beans that can cause gas and bloating. This makes beans easier on your digestive system and can help prevent discomfort after eating.
- Enhances Flavor: Kombu imparts a subtle umami flavor, making your black beans taste richer and more savory, almost like they’re cooked with a stock or broth.
Green Enchilada Sauce: A Clean, Flavorful Shortcut
If you want to add a burst of flavor without all the fuss, this Siete Green Enchilada Sauce is a great shortcut.
You can easily find clean, store-bought versions with no added preservatives or artificial flavors, like this one from Siete, making it a perfect addition to your crispy black bean tacos!
Green enchilada sauce also provides a nice tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cashew cream.
Easy Variation: Swap Enchilada Sauce for Guacamole
But if you’re looking for an even fresher alternative or something a bit more mild, guacamole can easily take its place!
It adds a creamy, cool contrast to the warmth of the crispy black beans and tortillas. Plus, it’s an excellent way to boost the healthy fat content of the meal.
To make it even easier, you can whip up some quick guacamole with just a few ingredients: mashed avocado, lime juice, cilantro and sea salt! I love serving this recipe with minced jalapeño for a little extra spice and flavor.
An Affordable Vegan Recipe
One of the best things about this crispy black bean taco recipe is how affordable it is.
I regularly score cans of black beans on sale for just $1 per can, making it easy to whip up a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition.
Buying beans in bulk when they’re on sale allows me to stock up and always have a healthy, protein-packed ingredient on hand for quick meals. 🙂
Beans are an incredibly affordable source of protein, especially when compared to meat, and they can be stored in the pantry for months, making them a cost-effective option for anyone on a budget. Whether you’re feeding just yourself or a family, this dish is both affordable and filling!
Health Benefits of Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Not only are these crispy black bean tacos delicious and budget-friendly, but they’re also incredibly healthy. Here’s why you should eat more beans and how this dish contributes to your well-being:
- High in Plant-Based Protein: Black beans are an excellent source of protein, making them a great option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to reduce their meat intake. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Rich in Fiber: Black beans are loaded with fiber, which helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. Fiber also promotes feelings of fullness, helping you stay satisfied longer and reducing the temptation for unhealthy snacks.
- Packed with Nutrients: Black beans are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients support everything from heart health to energy production.
- Support Heart Health: The fiber, antioxidants, and minerals found in black beans have been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart health. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends beans as part of a heart-healthy diet.
- Blood Sugar Control: The complex carbohydrates in beans are digested slowly, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. This makes them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain steady energy levels and avoid the blood sugar crashes that often come from processed carbs. Eating just 1 cup of beans per day supports healthy blood sugar levels and can help lower A1C.
Why You Should Eat More Beans
Beans are one of the most nutrient-dense, affordable, and versatile foods you can eat.
Whether you’re looking to improve your heart health, manage your weight, or simply eat a more plant-based diet, beans should definitely be a staple in your pantry. They can be used in everything from soups and salads to tacos and burritos—making them easy to incorporate into a variety of meals.
By making the switch to beans as a main protein source in your meals, you’re not only improving your health, but you’re also supporting sustainable food choices that are better for the planet.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep, a family dinner, or a fun taco night, these tacos are guaranteed to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.
Enjoy this crispy goodness with the added health benefits of beans, healthy fats, and plant-based ingredients!
CHECK OUT SOME OTHER DELICIOUS BEAN RECIPES:
Kale White Bean Salad
10 Minute Chickpea “Tuna” Sandwiches
Mediterranean Dense Bean Salad
Crispy Black Bean Tacos with Vegan Crema & Green Sauce
Ingredients
Black Cumin Beans:
- 2 15-ounce cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 2 inch piece of Kombu seaweed optional
For the Cashew Cream:
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup water
- Juice of 1/2 lemon or 1 lime
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1-2 garlic cloves or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp coconut aminos
Additional Ingredients:
- 6 grain-free tortillas I recommend Siete grain-free tortillas
- Avocado oil spray for baking
Toppings:
- Green Enchilada Sauce or Guacamole
- Diced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Cook the Beans:
- Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove any canned liquid.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the black beans, sea salt, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and kombu (if using).
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until the beans are warmed through and the spices are well incorporated.
- Mash the beans lightly with a fork or potato masher if you want a chunkier texture or blend them slightly for a smoother filling.
Prepare the Cashew Cream:
- While the beans are cooking, make the cashew cream by blending the unsalted roasted (or unroasted) cashews, water, lemon or lime juice, sea salt, garlic (or garlic powder), and coconut aminos in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. *Note: If not using high speed blender like a Vitamix, soak cashew in hot water for 20 mins prior to blending*
- Add more water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Tacos for Baking:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spray avocado oil spray to ensure they crisp up in the oven.
- Place 3 tortillas on the sheet, then spoon a generous amount of the black bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla, and use a fork to evenly distribute and mash into each open tortilla.
- The top each one with another tortilla (making a bean quesadilla if you will).
- Spray the top of the tortillas with avocado oil or brush on the oil.
Bake the Tacos:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
- You can flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the tacos are crisped to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Carefully cut each taco in half.
- Warm up the enchilada sauce for serving.
- Top with cashew cream, and serve with your choice of optional guacamole, diced jalapeños, and any other toppings you love, like fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
- Enjoy!
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