Black Bean Tacos

1 May 2026

Black Bean Tacos

Black bean tacos are proof that meat-free does not mean flavour-free. A tin of black beans costs around 80p in most UK supermarkets and when you season them properly with cumin and chilli they make a taco filling that is richer and more satisfying than many meat versions. At 70p per portion this is cheaper than a meal deal and way more interesting. The trick is mashing some of the beans so the filling holds together instead of rolling out of the taco.

Total cost: £2.80 (£0.70 per portion) – Serves 4 people. Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 10 mins

Black Bean Tacos

Tinned black beans seasoned with cumin and chilli make an incredible taco filling that costs a fraction of meat. Quick, colourful and genuinely fun to eat.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tin (400g) black beans, drained
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chilli powder
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 8 soft taco wraps or tortillas
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 50g grated cheese
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • hot sauce and sour cream to serve

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a pan. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until softening.
  2. Add the garlic, cumin and chilli powder. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the drained black beans and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook for 5 minutes, mashing some of the beans with the back of a fork to create a thick mixture.
  4. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for 30 seconds.
  5. Spoon the black bean mixture into the tortillas. Top with diced tomato, grated cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce.

Tips and Variations

Add a spoon of sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice if you have them. Any beans work here – kidney beans or pinto beans are good substitutes. Leftover filling makes an excellent jacket potato topping the next day.

Is it cheaper to make this from scratch? Use our Cook vs Buy Calculator to compare the real cost of homemade vs shop-bought.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

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