Nutritious and Quick Black Bean Burritos: Try Now!

When it comes to comforting and delicious vegetarian dishes, the Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos recipe stands out as a true culinary gem. With its rich history, widespread popularity, wholesome ingredients, and impressive nutritional profile, this mouthwatering Mexican-inspired creation has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog post, we will dive into the captivating journey of these flavorful burritos, exploring why they have become a beloved classic and a go-to option for those seeking a satisfying and wholesome meal.

The History

The history of burritos traces back to the early days of Mexican cuisine. Originating in Northern Mexico, these tasty wraps were born out of the need for portable and convenient meals that could sustain laborers and travelers. The term “burrito” is believed to have been derived from the Spanish word “burro,” meaning donkey. Some theories suggest that the dish got its name due to its shape resembling a rolled-up donkey’s ear, while others claim that burritos were commonly packed with beans, a popular fodder for donkeys.

Initially, traditional burritos featured a simple combination of beans, meat, and chili peppers wrapped in a wheat tortilla. However, as they journeyed across borders and cultures, various adaptations and modern twists emerged. The Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos recipe pays homage to the roots of these delightful wraps while embracing a vegetarian approach, making them accessible to a broader audience seeking plant-based delights.

The Popularity

The enduring popularity of Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the rise of vegetarian and plant-based diets has sparked a surge in demand for flavorful meatless options that don’t compromise on taste or satisfaction. These burritos, filled with robust black beans, colorful vegetables, and melty cheese, tick all the boxes for a truly delectable and nutritious meal.

Secondly, the ease and versatility of this recipe make it a winner for busy individuals and families. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into the fast-paced modern lifestyle without compromising on taste or nutrition. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch on the go, these burritos deliver on all fronts.

The Common Ingredients

At the heart of this recipe lies a harmonious blend of wholesome and readily available ingredients. The star of the show, black beans, provides a substantial source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting satiety and supporting digestive health. The colorful array of vegetables – purple onions, red peppers, corn, and grated carrots – adds a burst of flavor, texture, and essential vitamins and minerals.

The inclusion of aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder infuses the filling with enticing Mexican flavors, transporting taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico. The marriage of creamy Monterey Jack cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh cilantro crowns the burritos with a touch of indulgence and a burst of herbal freshness.

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Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos Recipe

This delicious and nutritious Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos recipe by Chef Nathan Sorensen makes six servings of flavorful burritos filled with black beans, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese. A perfect Mexican-inspired vegetarian dish that takes only 30 minutes to prepare.

Course Rice, Potatoes, and Beans

Cuisine Mexican

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 10

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

• 10 10- inch flour tortillas
• 3/4 cup chopped purple onions
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup diced red pepper 1/2-inch pieces
• 2/3 cup thawed frozen corn kernels
• 1 medium carrot coarsely grated
• 1 2/3 cups cooked black beans *see note for alternative
• 1/2 cup drained Mexican tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons minced and seeded jalapeno pepper
• 8 tablespoons grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 tablespoons light sour cream
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in the oven for about 15 minutes.
• In a large nonstick skillet, combine chopped onions and vegetable oil. Stir over medium-high heat until the onions turn golden, approximately 6 minutes.
• Add cumin and chili powder to the skillet; stir for 20 seconds to release the flavors.
• Mix in the diced red pepper, thawed corn kernels, and coarsely grated carrot. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are almost tender, about 5 minutes.
• Add the cooked black beans, drained Mexican tomatoes, and minced jalapeno pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
• Place the warm tortillas on a work surface. Spoon the vegetable and bean filling down the center of each tortilla, dividing it equally among them.
• Top each filled tortilla with 2 tablespoons of grated Monterey Jack cheese, followed by 1 tablespoon each of light sour cream and chopped cilantro.
• Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling to form neat packages. Place each burrito seam side down onto a plate.

Notes

For an alternative to cooked black beans, you can use canned black beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using.

The Nutrition

From a nutritional standpoint, Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos are a nutritional powerhouse. Loaded with plant-based proteins from black beans and essential nutrients from a diverse range of vegetables, these burritos offer a well-balanced meal that fuels the body and nourishes the soul. The dietary fiber from the beans and vegetables aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, making it an ideal choice for those looking to manage their weight and overall well-being.

Serving Ideas

While these burritos are a complete and satisfying meal on their own, they can be elevated with an array of serving ideas. Accompanying the burritos with a side of zesty homemade salsa or a refreshing avocado-cilantro lime sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence and flavor. For a heartier feast, serve the burritos with a side of Mexican rice and a crisp green salad, creating a delightful fiesta on your plate.

Chef Tips

To ensure the best results when making these Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos, consider the following chef tips:

• Tortilla Warmth: Heating the tortillas in the oven before filling them helps to make them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when rolled.
• Customization: Feel free to get creative with the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different cheese varieties to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead: These burritos can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Easy Black Bean and Vegetable Burritos recipe captures the essence of Mexican cuisine while offering a delightful twist that appeals to modern palates and dietary preferences. Its rich history, wide popularity, wholesome ingredients, and exceptional nutrition make it a persuasive choice for anyone seeking a scrumptious and fulfilling vegetarian meal. So, roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and embark on a flavorful journey to savor the magic of these irresistible burritos!