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Three cooking methods for crispy black bean tacos - oven baked pan fried air fried

Crispy Black Bean Tacos (Vegan)

These crispy black bean tacos are the ultimate vegan taco fix—packed with bold flavor, pantry-friendly ingredients, and that satisfying crunch you crave. Choose your crisping method (oven, pan, or air fryer), stuff them with spicy black bean filling, and top with your favorite creamy or crunchy extras. Great for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Main
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 19 oz black beans 2–3 cups, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning more to taste
  • 1 tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or sriracha
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder more to taste
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • chopped cilantro or parsley to taste
  • green onions sliced, optional
  • 6 to 8 small flour tortillas
  • olive oil for brushing
  • dairy-free cheese optional
  • optional toppings pico de gallo, avocado, vegan sour cream, etc.

Equipment

  • Food processor or potato masher
  • large skillet
  • baking sheet
  • Air Fryer

Method
 

  1. If oven baking, preheat oven to 450°F.
  2. Drain and rinse the black beans.
  3. Blend black beans, salsa, taco seasoning, chipotle, garlic powder, and salt in food processor until slightly chunky. Stir in herbs if using.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add green onions and cook until fragrant.
  5. Add bean mixture. Sear ~5 minutes, flipping in chunks to create a light crust. Add salsa/water if needed.
  6. Fill tortillas with 2–3 tbsp filling and vegan cheese (if using). Fold over.
  7. Oven: Brush tortillas with oil and bake 6–8 min per side at 450°F until golden and crispy.
  8. Pan-fry: Cook in oil over medium-high heat 2–3 minutes each side until crispy.
  9. Air fry: Brush with oil. Cook at 400°F for 4–7 minutes, flipping halfway.
  10. While tacos cook, prepare optional toppings and sauces.
  11. Serve hot with toppings and dipping sauces for maximum crunch.

Notes

Use corn tortillas for gluten-free option (warm first). Searing the filling enhances texture. Serve immediately after cooking for best crispiness. Filling and sauces can be made ahead.