Refried Bean Tacos: How To Elevate Canned Beans

Refried beans ofte get a bad rep, and it is DEFINITELY because not a single Abuelita was brought in to help develop the recipe for the smooth, and usually flavorful, filling.

Not only are beans good for you, but they make the perfect taco filling-create a canvas for all of your favorite taco flavors to be nestled within each tortilla. It is also a wonderful option as the star of a taco spread for any vegan/vegetarian foodies out there- being just as filling and delicious as the chicken tinga taco.

This guide will help you season and elevate any boring can of refried bean. Grab your cilantro, can opener, bag of limes, and enjoy!

Refried Bean Tacos

Time: 10-15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 1 16oz can of refried black beans (I get mine from Trader Joes)

• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper/chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 lime, juiced

• corn tortillas, for assembly

• Oaxacan cheese, for assembly

• mango-cucumber salsa, for garnish

• pickled onions, for garnish

• fresh lime, for garnish

• cilantro, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

To make the sauce:

1. In a bowl, mix together the refried beans, garlic, cilantro, cumin, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, onion powder, nutritional yeast, lime juice until combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.

2. Heat corn tortillas (I usually use 3) in a skillet until softened. Add the refried bean spread and cheese of choice. Fold.

3. Heat a greased skillet under medium heat and toast the folded tortillas until crispy

To assemble:

1. Plate the toasted tortillas. Add your favorite toppings such as:

   -mango-cucumber salsa

   -pickled onions

   -fresh lime

   -cilantro

   -cotija cheese

2. Dive in!

Guide To Elevating Bland Beans

When elevating a blank canvas such as refried beans, one must think of the flavors that make your heart sing. Think of the flavors you’re craving at the moment. Because beans tend to (usually) have a mild taste in flavor, spices originating from specific origins can have their moment- creating space for diverse flavors to shine.

Here are some spices, aromatics, and herbs I love to use:

Herbs

• Cilantro

• Parsley

• Oregano

Spices

• Cayenne Pepper

• Cumin

• Garlic Powder

• Onion Powder

• Chili Powder

• Five Spice (for a little Asian fusion)

• Nutmeg

• Cinnamon (cinnamon is often used in many savory North African dishes)

Fats

• Sour Cream

• Bacon Fat

• Queso Fresco