Crispy Black Bean Tacos (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Filling with Black Beans

01 - Two 14-ounce cans of black beans, rinsed and drained
02 - Half a cup of vegetable stock or broth
03 - One lime, squeezed for juice
04 - 3 tablespoons of olive oil, split up
05 - 1 medium onion, chopped small
06 - 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated
07 - 1 chipotle in adobo, chopped finely (or 1 tablespoon of its sauce)
08 - 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
09 - 1½ teaspoons of chili powder
10 - 1½ teaspoons each of ground cumin and smoked paprika

→ Putting It Together

11 - 6 ounces of Pepper Jack cheese, shredded fresh
12 - 8 to 10 corn tortillas
13 - Salt (Kosher) and ground black pepper, added as needed

→ Extras You Can Add

14 - Chopped cilantro
15 - Red onions, pickled
16 - Sour cream or a cashew-based crema
17 - Salsa, whichever you like
18 - Avocado mash or guacamole
19 - Shredded lettuce
20 - Extra lime wedges

# Instructions:

01 - Turn oven to 450°F and set its rack in the middle. Make sure all ingredients are prepped.
02 - On medium heat, sauté onions in 1 tablespoon of oil with salt until soft. Stir in garlic, chipotle, tomato paste, and spices, cooking until it smells great.
03 - Pour in the beans and broth, let it simmer, and mash up some beans for texture. Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning.
04 - Microwave tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel. On a baking sheet brushed with the remaining oil, lightly coat both sides of each tortilla.
05 - On one side of each tortilla, spread the bean mixture, sprinkle cheese, and fold over. Place folded side up on sheet.
06 - Bake for 8-10 minutes, flip carefully, and bake 8-10 more minutes till golden. Let rest for a short 2-3 minutes, then enjoy with your favorite toppings.

# Notes:

01 - Sub dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly option
02 - Best eaten immediately, but leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days
03 - Opt for thin, pliable tortillas to avoid breaking
04 - Get the prep work done early for quicker assembly