Feeling the pinch and need to eat well on a budget? You’re not alone! I’ve got you covered with easy, cheap meals to make when you’re broke. In this post, I’ll share simple taco recipes loaded with flavor and nutrients, plus tips to save money while shopping. Let’s turn your pantry staples into a delicious meal that won’t break the bank. Dive in and start cooking today!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– Black beans: 2 cans, rinsed and drained
– Corn: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Spices: 1 teaspoon cumin and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas: 8 small corn tortillas
– Toppings: 1 avocado (sliced), 1 cup diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
When I plan cheap meals, I focus on simple and affordable ingredients. Black beans are a great choice. They are high in protein and fiber. You can buy them canned or dried. Canned beans save time. Just rinse and drain them before cooking.
Corn adds sweetness and texture. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. All options work well. Make sure to drain the canned corn if you choose that.
Onion and garlic enhance the flavor. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. This step is quick and easy. Spices like cumin and smoked paprika add depth. They create a warm and smoky taste.
Don’t forget salt and pepper. These seasonings are key to bringing out the flavors. Use them according to your taste.
Tortillas are the base for these tacos. Small corn tortillas are perfect. They hold the filling well and add flavor.
Finally, toppings like avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime make your tacos shine. Sliced avocado adds creaminess. Fresh tomatoes give a burst of freshness. Cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor. Lime is great for squeezing over the top.
This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also customizable. You can adjust the toppings to your liking. For the full recipe, check the Budget-Friendly Black Bean Tacos section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Filling
First, you need to sauté the onion and garlic. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion. Cook it for about five minutes until it turns soft and clear. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This makes the kitchen smell great!
Now, it’s time to add the black beans and corn. Pour in two cans of rinsed black beans and one cup of corn. Add one teaspoon of cumin and one teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for five to seven minutes. Stir often until everything is warm.
Preparing the Tortillas
While your filling cooks, it’s time to warm the corn tortillas. Take another skillet and set it on medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet and warm it for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them soft and easy to fold.
Assembling the Tacos
Now comes the fun part: assembling the tacos! Start with a warm tortilla. Scoop some of the black bean mixture onto the center. Next, layer on sliced avocado and diced tomatoes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
You can find the full recipe for these budget-friendly black bean tacos above. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Budget-Saving Grocery Shopping Tips
Finding cheap ingredients is key. Look for local markets or discount stores. They often have great deals. Buy in bulk when you can. Items like rice, beans, and pasta last long. This saves money and reduces trips to the store.
Cooking and Preparation Tips
Enhancing flavors does not have to cost much. Use simple spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika. They add depth without breaking the bank. Fresh herbs like cilantro brighten your dishes. For serving, add lime wedges for a zesty kick.
Making it Simple
Meal prep can save you time and money. Cook a big batch of filling on a Sunday. Store leftovers in the fridge. This way, you can make tacos or burritos quickly during the week. Planning meals ahead keeps you on budget.
For a tasty and affordable dish, try the Full Recipe for Budget-Friendly Black Bean Tacos. You will enjoy delicious food without spending much!
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in these tacos easily.
– Using lentils or chickpeas: Both lentils and chickpeas work well. They add protein and fiber. Just cook them like the beans. Mix them with the corn and spices for a great taste.
– Adding shredded chicken: If you have leftover chicken, shred it. Add it to the taco filling for more flavor and protein. This can make the meal more filling.
Topping Ideas
Toppings can change the flavor of your tacos. Here are some great options:
– Salsa, cheese, or sour cream alternatives: If you want a kick, add salsa. You can use yogurt instead of sour cream. Grated cheese is also a nice touch.
– Fresh herbs and spices variations: Fresh cilantro adds a bright taste. You can also use green onions or parsley. A sprinkle of chili flakes can add heat.
Tortilla Alternatives
If you want to switch the tortillas, try these ideas:
– Using lettuce wraps or whole wheat tortillas: Lettuce wraps are healthy and low-carb. They add crunch and freshness. Whole wheat tortillas are more filling and add fiber. They are a great choice for a hearty taco.
Explore these variations to make budget-friendly black bean tacos even better. With simple changes, you can keep meals fun and tasty. For the full recipe, check the section above.
Storage Info
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store leftover filling and tortillas, use airtight containers. Place the filling in one container. Keep the tortillas in another. Make sure to let the filling cool before sealing. This keeps moisture from building up. Leftovers stay fresh for three to four days in the fridge.
For reheating, I suggest using a skillet. Heat the filling over medium heat until warm. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Warm the tortillas in the skillet for 30 seconds on each side. This helps them stay soft and tasty.
Freezing Options
If you want to freeze the filling, let it cool completely. Then, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bags with the date. The filling can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing. Reheat the filling in a skillet until hot. This will keep the flavors fresh and delicious.
For more details on this recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
What is the total cost to make these tacos?
The total cost is about $10. You can make four servings with this amount. Each taco costs around $2. This makes it a great meal option when you are on a budget. Prices may vary by location, so check your local store for deals.
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to three days. Store the filling in an airtight container. Keep the tortillas separate to prevent them from getting soggy. Reheat the filling on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these tacos gluten-free. Just choose corn tortillas, as they do not contain gluten. Check labels on canned items like beans and corn to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry.
What other cheap meals can I make using black beans?
Black beans are versatile and budget-friendly. Here are some ideas:
– Black Bean Soup: Blend cooked black beans with broth, spices, and veggies.
– Black Bean Salad: Mix black beans with corn, diced peppers, and a simple dressing.
– Black Bean Burritos: Fill tortillas with black beans, rice, and veggies.
– Black Bean Quesadillas: Add black beans and cheese between tortillas, then cook until crispy.
These meals are delicious and easy to make! Try them for variety and to keep costs low. For the full recipe of black bean tacos, refer back to the earlier section.
These tacos are a fun, healthy, and budget-friendly choice. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps to make them, and great tips to save money. You can customize the recipe with different proteins and toppings. Storing leftovers is simple, too!
Enjoy making these tasty tacos, and get creative with your meals! Cook with fresh ingredients and share with friends. Happy cooking!
