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Spicy Vegetarian Black Bean Chalupas
Just like their very close cousins tostadas, chalupas can be topped with just about anything you can think of. While meat of various kinds are the most popular, there are many who enjoy their chalupas without meat - and as you would expect in Mexican cuisine, black beans are the meatless main ingredient of choice.
This black bean chalupas recipe may lack meat, but definitely does not skimp on the flavor. The hearty taste of black beans is complimented here by the kick of jalapeno pepper and the snap of onions, and then topped with more onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salsa for a truly satisfying and flavorful meatless snack or entrée.
This is an easy recipe to make as well, especially since we will be using tostada shells rather than the slightly thicker tortillas which are usually employed when making chalupas. If you would prefer to go 100% authentic with this recipe, then you can pick up some masa flour and make them yourself; it is not that hard to do, but does take a bit of time, so allow plenty of extra prep time if you plan to do this.
Black Bean Chalupas
Ingredients -
12 tostada shells
1 can refried black beans
1 white onion, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 small bunch cilantro, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Salsa, lime wedges, and avocado slices, for serving
Shredded cheese (optional)
Preparation:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté ¼ of the onion along with the jalapeno, until the onion begins to turn translucent, about three minutes, stirring regularly. Add the cumin, oregano, and beans and stir regularly until the beans are heated through. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Top each tostada shell with the bean mixture, onion, cilantro, avocado and shredded cheese (if using). Serve hot with lime wedges and salsa.
(Serves 6)
Photo Description:
There is almost nothing easier than this black bean chalupa recipe. Healthy and meat-free yet savory, spicy and filling, these are chalupas which can easily satisfy the hunger of even the most die-hard carnivores among us. They are also quick to prepare, so it is easy to whip up a dozen (or few) on short notice. Great for dinner, lunch, and parties or just as a snack, these chalupas are easy enough to make any time you feel like it; and good enough that chances are that you will feel like making them quite often.
