Welcome back to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into one of the most beloved vegan options on the Taco Bell menu: Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a meat-free option, these black beans are a must-try. Also you can add this black beans as a feeling on Taco Bell 7 Layer Burrito or Taco Bell 5 Layer Burrito.
Let’s get started on making this simple and delicious recipe at home.
What so Special About This Taco Bell Black Beans?
The Taco Bell Black Beans are special due to their simplicity and rich flavor. Made with basic yet aromatic ingredients like olive oil, white onions, garlic, turmeric, paprika, and cumin, they offer a quick, vegan-friendly option that’s both nutritious and delicious.
These beans are versatile, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish. The recipe replicates Taco Bell’s beloved black beans, providing a homemade alternative that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying addition to any meal.
Ingredients for Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
- 1 can Black Beans (with liquid)
- 1 tbsp.. Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Diced White Onion
- 1 clove of Garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Medium saucepan (3-quart)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Black Beans
Step-01: Dice the white onion and finely chop the garlic clove. Place a medium (3-quart) saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up.
Step-02: Add the diced white onion to the saucepan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the onions are slightly softened. Add the finely chopped garlic to the saucepan. Sauté for another 30 seconds.
Step-03: Add 1/2 teaspoon each of turmeric, paprika, and cumin to the saucepan. Stir and let the spices toast for about 1 minute. This step enhances the flavor of the spices.
Step-04: Pour the entire can of black beans, including the liquid, into the saucepan. Stir to combine the beans with the onion, garlic, and spices.
Step-05: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step-06: After simmering, taste the beans. If needed, add salt and pepper to taste. However, canned black beans often contain enough salt, so additional seasoning may not be necessary.
Serve the black beans hot as a side dish like Taco Bell Pico De Gallo, taco filling, or as a topping for your favorite dishes. Enjoy!
Watch How To Make
Creative Serving Ideas for Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
1. Taco Filling:
Use the black beans as a hearty filling for soft or hard shell tacos. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and your favorite salsa for a complete meal.
2. Burrito Stuffing:
Add the black beans to a large tortilla along with rice, cheese, sour cream, and fresh veggies to make a delicious burrito.
3. Taco Salad:
Create a vibrant taco salad by topping a bed of lettuce with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a dollop of guacamole.
4. Nachos:
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, sprinkle with black beans, cheese, jalapeños, and bake until the cheese is melted. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
5. Rice and Beans:
Serve the black beans over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a simple and nutritious meal.
6. Quesadillas:
Spread black beans and shredded cheese between two tortillas. Cook on a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
7. Bean Dip:
Mash the black beans slightly and mix with some lime juice and cilantro. Serve as a dip with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
8. Stuffed Peppers:
Mix black beans with cooked quinoa, corn, and cheese. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender.
9. Breakfast Burritos:
Add the black beans to scrambled eggs, cheese, and sautéed veggies. Wrap in a tortilla for a protein-packed breakfast burrito.
10. Soup or Chili:
Incorporate the black beans into a vegetable soup or chili. They add a hearty texture and rich flavor to these warming dishes.
URRecipe Community Tips on Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
Always use fresh garlic and onions for the best flavor. Pre-chopped or jarred garlic can have a different taste and texture.
2. Sauté Onions Properly:
Cook the onions until they are translucent, not browned. This will ensure they add a sweet flavor without overpowering the dish.
3. Avoid Burning Garlic:
Add garlic after the onions have softened. Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so only sauté it for about 30 seconds before adding other ingredients.
4. Toast Spices:
Toasting the spices before adding the beans releases their essential oils and enhances their flavors. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
5. Adjust Salt Carefully:
Canned beans often contain a significant amount of sodium. Taste the beans before adding extra salt to avoid making the dish too salty.
6. Maintain Consistency:
If the beans are too thick, add a bit of water, vegetable stock, or even some more olive oil to achieve your desired consistency. For a richer flavor, you can use chicken stock if you’re not strictly vegan.
7. Simmer Slowly:
Allow the beans to simmer on low heat. This gentle cooking method helps the flavors meld together without breaking down the beans.
8. Experiment with Spices:
Feel free to adjust the amount of turmeric, cumin, and paprika to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
9. Use Quality Olive Oil:
A good quality olive oil can make a big difference in the flavor of your beans. Choose a cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
10. Serve Fresh:
Black beans taste best when served immediately after cooking. If you need to reheat them, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to keep them from drying out.
How to Store Leftover Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
To store leftover Taco Bell black beans, let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Common queries on Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Taco Bell Black Beans Recipe
1. What are the ingredients in Taco Bell black beans?
The ingredients in this Taco Bell black beans recipe are 1 can of black beans, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/4 cup of diced white onion, 1 clove of garlic (finely chopped), 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Optionally, you can add salt and pepper to taste.
2. How does Taco Bell make their beans?
Taco Bell’s black beans are prepared by simmering them with a blend of spices and seasonings. In this recipe, we replicate the process by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, adding turmeric, paprika, and cumin, and then simmering the canned black beans with the sautéed mixture.
3. Is Taco Bell black bean burrito healthy?
The Taco Bell black bean burrito can be a healthy option, especially when compared to other fast-food items. Black beans are high in protein and fiber, and this recipe uses wholesome ingredients like olive oil, onions, and garlic. To keep it healthy, avoid adding high-calorie toppings like excessive cheese or sour cream.
4. Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black beans. You’ll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before following the recipe. This will add extra preparation time but can offer a more authentic taste and texture.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the black beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
6. How can I make the black beans spicier?
To add more heat to the recipe, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or chopped jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic.
7. Are these black beans vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan. It uses plant-based ingredients and does not include any animal products.
8. What can I substitute for olive oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use another cooking oil like canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Each will slightly alter the flavor but will work well in the recipe.
9. Can I freeze the cooked black beans?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked black beans. Let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
10. What can I serve with Taco Bell black beans?
These black beans are versatile and can be served as a side dish, in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, or as part of a rice and beans dish. They also make a great topping for salads or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Black beans are a versatile and nutritious option for any meal. This Taco Bell copycat recipe is perfect for those looking for a simple, vegan-friendly dish that can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying them on their own, these black beans are sure to be a hit.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out the rest of our “Everything Taco Bell” series for more delicious copycat recipes. Happy cooking!
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