The enticing sound of sizzling in the kitchen calls to me, reminding me of cozy evenings filled with scrumptious bites. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Crispy Vegan Taquitos recipe, a dish that promises to add a delightful crunch to your meals. These taquitos are not just a treat for your taste buds; they come together quickly and are meal prep-friendly, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you choose to prepare them in an air fryer or baked in the oven, their customizable nature means you can adapt them to match your favorite flavors. Perfect for taco nights or as a satisfying snack, these taquitos are sure to win the hearts of everyone at your table. Are you ready to fall in love with a new favorite? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Taquitos So Irresistible?
Crispy, golden perfection: With a delightful crunch, these taquitos reach the perfect golden hue, creating a stand-out dish for your meals.
Easy customizations: Tailor the filling to your taste—choose pinto or black beans, and switch up the spices for a personal touch.
Meal prep champion: Assemble a batch and freeze for busy nights! Simply cook from frozen, ensuring a quick and satisfying dinner.
Healthy & delicious: At just 67 calories each, they’re a guilt-free indulgence that packs in flavor without sacrificing your wellness goals.
Versatile pairings: Serve them with a variety of salsas, homemade guacamole, or fresh pico de gallo for an explosion of flavors, just like with these Parmesan Potato Roses or Smashed Potatoes.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delectable Crispy Vegan Taquitos!
Crispy Vegan Taquitos Ingredients
- For the Filling
- Avocado Oil – Perfect for sautéing; substitute with water for an oil-free option.
- Onion (1 small, finely diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Sea Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances all flavors and can be reduced for low-sodium diets.
- Tomato (1 medium, finely chopped) – Brings freshness and moisture to the mixture.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely diced) – Provides a crunchy texture and subtle flavor.
- Jalapeño (1, finely diced) – Adds a spicy kick; remove seeds for milder taste.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the filling with wonderful aromatic flavor.
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth (¼ cup) – Use for deglazing and adding moisture; water also works.
- Canned Pinto or Black Beans (15-ounce can) – The base of the filling; hearty and protein-rich.
- Water or Vegetable Broth (1 ½ cups) – Use for cooking beans; omit bouillon if using broth.
- Vegan Bouillon Cube (1) – Boosts umami flavor in the beans.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon), Onion Powder (½ teaspoon), Paprika (½ teaspoon), Cumin (½ teaspoon), Smoked Paprika (¼ teaspoon), Mexican Oregano (½ teaspoon), Cayenne Pepper (1 pinch) – This spice blend ensures authentic taquito flavor.
- Corn Tortillas (20) – Essential to hold all that delicious filling together.
These Crispy Vegan Taquitos are not just a meal; they are a joy to make and share!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Vegan Taquitos
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion along with a teaspoon of sea salt, cooking until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped tomato, diced celery, jalapeño, and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant and tender.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
Next, stir in a can of pinto or black beans, along with ¼ cup of vegetable broth and your spice blend: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, smoked paprika, Mexican oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. Simmer the mixture on medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and absorb all the delicious flavors, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While the bean filling is simmering, warm your corn tortillas. You can either wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds or heat them individually in a dry skillet for about 10-15 seconds per side, until they’re soft and pliable. This step is key for making the Crispy Vegan Taquitos easier to roll.
Step 4: Assemble the Taquitos
Once the filling is ready and your tortillas are warm, it’s time to assemble! Take each tortilla and spoon approximately 1.5 tablespoons of the bean mixture into the center. Roll the tortilla tightly, folding in the ends to keep the filling secure. Place each rolled taquito seam-side down on a plate, ready for cooking.
Step 5: Choose Your Cooking Method
For perfect Crispy Vegan Taquitos, you can choose between air frying or baking. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 390°F (200°C) and arrange the taquitos in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. For the oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the taquitos are crisp and golden.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Crispy Vegan Taquitos are done, remove them from the air fryer or oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite accompaniments, such as avocado salsa, crispy lettuce, pico de gallo, or guacamole for a delightful meal that will brighten your taco night!
What to Serve with Crispy Vegan Taquitos
Elevate your taquito experience with these delightful sides and pairings that complement every crunchy bite.
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Avocado Salsa: Creamy and fresh, this salsa adds richness and balances the spices in the taquitos. A must-try for a perfect bite!
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Crispy Lettuce Salad: Light and crunchy, a simple salad with crisp lettuce and a tangy dressing refreshes the palate between each taquito.
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Pico de Gallo: Bursting with ripe tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, this fresh salsa adds a zesty contrast that brightens the taquito flavors.
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Guacamole: This creamy dip enhances the flavors with its rich texture and buttery taste, creating a harmonious pairing with each crispy taquito.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brings a delightful sweetness and extra crunch that matches the texture of the taquitos beautifully.
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Chips and Spicy Salsa: Add some crunchy tortilla chips with your favorite spicy salsa for a satisfying appetizer that sets the stage for your taquito feast.
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Margaritas: A refreshing classic drink, margaritas perfectly complement the Mexican flavors and bring a fun twist to your taco night!
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Coconut Flan: Finish your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, which contrasts the savory taquitos and adds a layer of indulgence.
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Agua Fresca: Light and fruity beverages like agua fresca keep your meal refreshing and balanced, making each bite of taquito even more enjoyable.
These pairings will not only enhance your Crispy Vegan Taquitos but also create a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Vegan Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftover crispy vegan taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to preserve their crunch.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze assembled, uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cook from frozen either in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes or bake in the oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they reach a crispy texture.
Meal Prep Tip: These crispy vegan taquitos are fantastic for meal prep, making them a delicious and convenient option for busy weeknights.
Tips for the Best Crispy Vegan Taquitos
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Crispy Texture: Arrange taquitos seam-side down in the air fryer or oven to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that won’t unravel when cooking.
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Filling Variations: Feel free to swap pinto beans for black beans or add extra veggies like corn for additional flavor and texture in your Crispy Vegan Taquitos.
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Meal Prep Magic: Prepare and assemble taquitos ahead of time, then freeze them. Cook directly from frozen when you’re ready for a quick dinner, just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
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Oil-Free Option: For a healthier twist, sauté filling ingredients in vegetable broth instead of oil, keeping the taste rich without the added fat.
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Soft Tortillas: Warm your corn tortillas before filling to prevent cracking. This ensures easy rolling and maintains the integrity of your Crispy Vegan Taquitos.
Crispy Vegan Taquitos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and adapt your taquitos to suit your tastes!
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Bean Swap: Use black beans instead of pinto for a richer flavor and creamier texture. They pack a delicious punch that pairs wonderfully with the spices!
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Add Veggies: Toss in corn or spinach for added texture and nutrients. This colorful addition brightens up the filling, making each bite even more delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Include hot sauce or swap out the jalapeño for a habanero for extra heat. Just a touch will elevate the flavor experience to new heights!
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Herb Infusion: Try adding cilantro or chopped green onions to the filling for a burst of freshness. These herbs add a lovely contrast to the savory beans!
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Flavorful Salsas: Experiment with different salsas like mango avocado salsa or a zesty creamy jalapeño sauce on the side for a fun twist. Each bite becomes an adventure!
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Baked Crunch: For a richer flavor, brush taquitos with olive oil before baking to enhance their crispiness. You’ll achieve a golden exterior that’s simply irresistible!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional corn tortillas for gluten-free tortillas if you need a gluten-free option. They will work beautifully and still offer that familiar taquito crunch!
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Herbed Creaminess: Consider blending in a couple of tablespoons of nutritional yeast into the filling for a cheesy, umami flavor. You’ll love how it complements the spices!
These variations are excellent for keeping your meals exciting, especially when serving them alongside favorites like Parmesan Potato Gratin or Smashed Potatoes. Explore and enjoy each customized bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Vegan Taquitos are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply sauté the veggies and cook the beans, then let the mixture cool before refrigerating. For the taquitos, assemble them and freeze them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, air fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they come out just as deliciously crispy. This method not only saves time but also guarantees that you always have a tasty and satisfying snack or meal on hand!
Crispy Vegan Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What kind of beans should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use either pinto or black beans for the filling, depending on your taste preference. Both options provide a creamy texture and a good source of protein. If you’re looking for something different, feel free to experiment with other legumes like chickpeas or kidney beans!
How should I store leftover crispy vegan taquitos?
To keep your leftover crispy vegan taquitos tasting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they regain that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze taquitos before cooking?
Yes! For meal prep, assemble the taquitos but do not cook them. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to cook, you can air fry them for 8-10 minutes or bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, adding a few minutes to the time if cooking from frozen.
What if my taquitos fall apart when cooking?
If your taquitos fall apart while cooking, it might be due to the filling being too moist or not rolling them tightly enough. To avoid this, ensure your filling is thick enough and that you warm the tortillas gently before assembly to make them more pliable and easier to roll. Arranging them seam-side down in the air fryer or oven can also help keep them secure.
Are these taquitos safe for people with allergies?
These crispy vegan taquitos are free from eggs and dairy, making them suitable for many people on plant-based diets. However, if anyone in your household has allergies, please check the ingredient labels, especially for canned goods and spices, to ensure they are free from allergens like gluten or specific preservatives. Always adapt the recipe to fit your dietary needs.
Crispy Vegan Taquitos for Effortless Taco Night Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sea salt, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped tomato, diced celery, jalapeño, and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add a can of pinto or black beans, ¼ cup vegetable broth, and your spice blend. Simmer on medium-low for about 20 minutes.
- Warm corn tortillas either in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel for 30 seconds or heat individually in a dry skillet.
- Spoon approximately 1.5 tablespoons of the bean mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly, folding in the ends.
- For air frying, preheat to 390°F and arrange taquitos in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes or bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with accompaniments like salsa or guacamole.
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