Black Bean Tostadas are a delicious and nutritious Mexican dish featuring tostadas topped with a layer of savory black beans and various toppings.
Texture-wise, Black Bean Tostadas showcase a crispy base made from toasted or fried corn tortillas. These tostadas act as a sturdy platform for the toppings.
The black beans are typically seasoned and mashed, then spread generously onto the tostadas. The texture of the black beans can vary, from a smoother consistency to leaving some whole beans for added texture.
Toppings for Black Bean Tostadas can vary and often include shredded lettuce or cabbage, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro, crumbled cheese (such as queso fresco or cotija), sour cream or Mexican crema, and a drizzle of salsa or hot sauce.
The combination of ingredients provides a diverse range of textures—crispiness from the tortilla, creaminess from the beans and avocado, freshness from the vegetables, and a burst of flavors from the seasonings and toppings.
Black Bean Tostadas are a flavorful and wholesome dish, suitable for vegetarians and appreciated for their balance of textures and nutritious components, making them a popular and enjoyable choice in Mexican cuisine.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- For Whom: Ideal for vegetarians, those seeking a meatless option, or anyone who loves bold flavors.
- Estimated Duration: Ready in about 20 minutes, a quick and nutritious choice for any day of the week.
- Nutrition Facts: A protein-rich dish with a variety of vitamins from fresh veggies.
About This Recipe
Black Bean Tostadas showcase the versatility of tostadas by highlighting the richness and earthiness of black beans. With a combination of crisp tostadas, creamy black beans, and a colorful array of toppings, this dish is a fiesta of textures and flavors.
Equipment Required
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Black Beans:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tostadas:
- Corn tostadas
- Guacamole or sliced avocados
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Salsa
- Queso fresco (Mexican crumbly cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Black Beans:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, black beans, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
Tostadas:
- Warm corn tostadas in the oven according to package instructions.
- Spread a layer of guacamole or sliced avocados on each tostada.
- Top with black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, queso fresco, and chopped cilantro.
Side Dishes
- Mexican rice
- Corn and black bean salad
Storage Options
Tostadas are best enjoyed immediately to maintain their crunch. Store black beans and tostada toppings separately and assemble just before serving.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Black Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans can be used as alternatives.
- Queso Fresco: Cotija or feta cheese can replace queso fresco.
Alternatives to This Meal
For added protein, top the black bean tostadas with grilled tofu or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
Black Bean Tostadas offer a vegetarian fiesta on your plate, combining the heartiness of black beans with the crunch of tostadas and the freshness of vibrant toppings. This dish is a celebration of plant-based goodness and bold flavors. ¡Buen provecho!
