Crispy Chipotle Black Bean Taquitos

Introduction

There’s something undeniably delightful about biting into a crispy taquito, especially when it’s filled with a rich, creamy mixture that packs a punch of flavor. The first time I made these Crispy Chipotle Black Bean Taquitos, my family couldn’t get enough. They were perfect for a casual dinner, but they also made a fantastic party snack. Each taquito is a little package of deliciousness, and the combination of chipotle and cream cheese offers a satisfying kick that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether served as a meal or an appetizer, these taquitos quickly became a favorite in our household.

Ingredients

• 10-12 corn tortillas
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons jarred diced jalapeños
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo plus 1/2 teaspoon adobo sauce
• Avocado oil, as needed for frying
• Guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or queso for dipping

Instructions

1. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, black beans, diced jalapeños, cumin, garlic powder, salt, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is creamy.
2. Warm Tortillas: To make the corn tortillas pliable and easy to roll, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 30 seconds. This will help prevent them from cracking when you fill and roll them.
3. Fill Tortillas: Take a warmed tortilla and add about 2 tablespoons of the filling along one edge. Shape the filling into a log and roll up the tortilla tightly, seam side down. Place the rolled taquito on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Fry Taquitos: In a high-sided frying pan, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place about four taquitos in the pan, seam side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining taquitos.
5. Serve: Serve the crispy taquitos immediately with your favorite dips such as guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or queso.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 (approximately 3 taquitos per serving)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the taquitos immediately after frying to maintain their crispiness.
• Offer a variety of dips, such as:
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Queso
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or diced green onions for an added touch.
• Pair with a fresh salad or rice for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve the taquitos.
2. Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the taquitos at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing them lightly with oil.
3. Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers and jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.
4. Use Different Beans: Substitute black beans with pinto or refried beans for a different flavor profile.
5. Tortilla Type: While corn tortillas are traditional, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrition.
• Cheesy Taquitos: Mix in shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, for an extra cheesy filling.
• Meat Option: Incorporate cooked and shredded chicken or beef for a heartier taquito.
• Sweet Potato Taquitos: Replace the black beans with mashed sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
• Pair with a fresh corn salad or avocado salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a variety of beverages, such as margaritas or flavored sparkling water, to enhance the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the un-fried taquitos for up to 3 months. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Cooking from Frozen: Fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover fried taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

• Yes, you can use canola or vegetable oil, but avocado oil is recommended for its high smoke point and flavor.

1. Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying?

• Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing with oil to help them crisp up.

1. What can I serve with taquitos?

• They pair well with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or queso.

1. How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?

• Warming the tortillas in a damp paper towel helps keep them pliable and prevents cracking.

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftover taquitos?

• Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes for optimal crispiness.

1. How spicy are these taquitos?

• The spice level can vary depending on the amount of chipotle and jalapeños you use. Adjust to your taste.

1. Can I use canned black beans?

• Yes, canned black beans work perfectly! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well.

1. Is there a vegetarian alternative for the filling?

• Yes! You can add sautéed vegetables or use mashed sweet potatoes for a vegetarian filling.

1. How long will these taquitos last in the fridge?
   • They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Crispy Chipotle Black Bean Taquitos are a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. Their combination of creamy filling and crunchy texture, paired with a variety of dips, makes them irresistible. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer flexibility in terms of ingredients and serving options. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these taquitos are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the burst of flavor and the joy of sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!

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