Introduction
When it comes to delicious, crowd-pleasing snacks or light meals, taquitos are hard to beat. These crunchy, rolled tortillas filled with savory goodness are a staple of Mexican cuisine, loved for their versatility and satisfying texture. Today, we’re bringing you a plant-based twist on this classic with our Crispy Vegan Taquitos with Spiced Beans recipe. Perfect for those adhering to a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, these taquitos are a must-try. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they’re also easy to make, healthy, and incredibly versatile.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into why these taquitos should be your next kitchen adventure. We’ll guide you through the recipe step by step, offering tips on substitutions, variations, and more. Whether you’re preparing a snack for game day, a quick weeknight dinner, or a dish to impress your friends, these vegan taquitos are guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why Make These Crispy Vegan Taquitos?
1. Bursting with Flavor
One of the standout features of these vegan taquitos is the incredible depth of flavor they offer. The combination of black beans, sweet potatoes, and corn creates a satisfying filling that’s both hearty and delicious. The blend of spices—chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika—adds a warm, slightly smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the earthiness of the beans. Every bite is a burst of flavor, making these taquitos a hit with everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
2. Nutrient-Rich and Wholesome
These taquitos aren’t just tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients. Black beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious base for the filling. Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness along with a boost of vitamins A and C, while corn contributes additional fiber and a subtle crunch. With ingredients like these, you can feel good about serving these taquitos to your family and friends.
3. Easy and Quick to Prepare
Despite their impressive flavor and presentation, these vegan taquitos are surprisingly easy to make. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch even on busy weeknights. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and enjoyable to prepare.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
These taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be served for a variety of occasions. They make a great appetizer for parties, a satisfying lunch, or a quick dinner when paired with a salad or some rice. The crispy texture and flavorful filling are sure to impress guests, and the fact that they’re vegan means they’re suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Plus, they’re fun to eat—who doesn’t love a crispy, handheld snack?
Ingredients List
To make these Crispy Vegan Taquitos with Spiced Beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup black beans, cooked
- 1 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 small corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream, fresh cilantro
Ingredient Notes:
- Black Beans: You can use canned black beans for convenience, but be sure to rinse and drain them before using. Alternatively, you can cook dried black beans from scratch for an even more authentic flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes: These add a creamy texture and natural sweetness to the filling. You can cook them by boiling, steaming, or baking until they’re soft enough to mash.
- Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for getting the taquitos crispy without drying them out.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked black beans, mashed sweet potatoes, corn kernels, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The filling should be slightly chunky but evenly mixed, with all ingredients well distributed.
3. Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas easier to roll without cracking, you’ll need to warm them up. You can do this in a microwave by stacking the tortillas between damp paper towels and heating them for about 30 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm them individually in a skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Taquitos
Once your tortillas are warm and pliable, it’s time to assemble the taquitos. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling on one side of each tortilla. Spread it out slightly, then roll the tortilla tightly, starting from the side with the filling. Continue rolling until the tortilla is tightly wrapped around the filling. Repeat this process for all the tortillas.
5. Bake the Taquitos
Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent them from unrolling during baking. Brush the tops of the taquitos with olive oil to encourage browning and crisping.
Bake the taquitos in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. You may want to flip them halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once your taquitos are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. They’re best enjoyed hot, straight out of the oven. Serve them with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Tips and Substitutions
1. Make Them Spicier
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. You can also top the taquitos with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
2. Gluten-Free Option
These taquitos are naturally gluten-free thanks to the corn tortillas. Just be sure to check the packaging of your tortillas to ensure they’re certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain trace amounts of gluten.
3. Switch Up the Beans
If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can easily substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Each type of bean will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the filling.
4. Add Some Greens
For a nutritional boost, consider adding some finely chopped spinach or kale to the filling. Just mix the greens in with the other ingredients before assembling the taquitos. They’ll wilt slightly during baking, adding both flavor and extra vitamins.
5. Air Fryer Option
If you prefer, you can cook these taquitos in an air fryer instead of the oven. Simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the rolled taquitos in the basket in a single layer, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re crispy and golden. This method may yield even crispier results with less oil.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegan Breakfast Taquitos
For a breakfast twist, you can fill these taquitos with scrambled tofu, vegan sausage, and diced bell peppers. Serve them with a side of vegan queso or salsa for a delicious morning meal.
2. Sweet and Spicy Taquitos
Add a sweet and spicy twist by including a small amount of diced pineapple or mango in the filling. The sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
3. Cheesy Vegan Taquitos
If you’re craving something extra indulgent, add a sprinkle of vegan cheese inside each taquito before rolling. The cheese will melt during baking, adding a gooey, satisfying texture to each bite.
4. Loaded Taquitos
Turn these taquitos into a full meal by serving them loaded with toppings. Add generous amounts of guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and even some pickled jalapeños on top for a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious.
Nutritional Information
These Crispy Vegan Taquitos with Spiced Beans are not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from a serving:
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin A: 240% DV (from sweet potatoes)
- Iron: 10% DV (from black beans)
This recipe is low in fat, high in fiber, and a good source of plant-based protein. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the taquitos soggy.
Freezing Option
These taquitos also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. To freeze, place the unbaked taquitos on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the taquitos straight from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and hot.
Serving Suggestions
These taquitos are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a variety of toppings and sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole pairs perfectly with the crispy taquitos. Make your own with ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
- Salsa: Whether you prefer mild or spicy, salsa adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the rich filling.
- Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of vegan sour cream adds a tangy, creamy element that balances the spices in the filling.
- Rice and Beans: Serve the taquitos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy taquitos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer, but the texture will be slightly different. Corn tortillas tend to crisp up better in the oven, giving you that classic taquito crunch. If you do use flour tortillas, consider baking them for a few extra minutes to achieve a similar crispiness.
2. How can I make these taquitos gluten-free?
These taquitos are naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas. Be sure to check the packaging of your tortillas, as some brands may contain traces of gluten.
3. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them (as mentioned in the storage section) for a quick and easy meal later on.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftover taquitos?
The best way to reheat leftover taquitos is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the taquitos for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the taquitos soggy.
5. Are these taquitos kid-friendly?
Yes! These taquitos are flavorful but not too spicy, making them a great option for kids. You can also adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of chili powder or leaving it out altogether.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed these Crispy Vegan Taquitos with Spiced Beans, you might also like:
- Vegan Enchiladas: A hearty and comforting dish with a rich tomato sauce and plant-based filling.
- Black Bean and Sweet Potato Quesadillas: Another delicious combination of black beans and sweet potatoes, sandwiched between crispy tortillas.
- Vegan Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema: Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, these tacos are perfect for taco night.
- Spicy Chickpea Burritos: A protein-packed burrito with a spicy kick, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
These Crispy Vegan Taquitos with Spiced Beans are more than just a snack—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With their crispy exterior, flavorful filling, and endless customization options, these taquitos are perfect for any occasion.
So why not give them a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious plant-based dish that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below and explore more recipes on our site for even more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
