We absolutely love Mexican food, but we're always focused on the flavors and, of course, calories. So we often cook at home where we can control the spices, fats and oils. But every once in a while, we'll treat ourselves to a visit to our favorite local Mexican restaurant. I personally can't resist a delicious Chimichanga, but I also enjoy other Tex-Mex dishes like Burritos, Nachos, Enchiladas, and... oh, I loooovvveee black beans! And, of course, there's a margarita or two!!!
Favorite foods!!!!
Black beans are super versatile and can be used in many different dishes. They're perfect for burritos, dips, nachos, taquitos, and even as a yummy side dish. And the best part is we can still enjoy all of these delicious foods without feeling guilty about the amount of calories. By using bacon or ham for flavor, we can cut down on the oil and still get all the tasty goodness. Plus, black beans are super filling, so they'll help keep us full and satisfied even after we're done eating.
Hey, we also like Mexican food because it gives you a good excuse to have a nice cold beer!!!
Spicy Bacon Black Bean Dip is the BEST!!!
We really enjoy experimenting with spices in the kitchen, and it's amazing how they can enhance the flavor of a dish while helping to cut down on fat and calories. The spiciness of peppers can be unpredictable for example, we made a stuffed portobello mushroom with two Habanero Peppers, but they were barely spicy. We thought we had destroyed our taste buds. As it turns out, these peppers were just mild. Last night, when I added just a little bit of Serrano pepper to my sandwich, it was so spicy that I actually shed a tear and couldn't talk for a few minutes! Amy found it pretty funny.
Back to Beans
If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious option for dips, black beans are definitely the way to go! They have a great flavor, are super satisfying, and are packed with all sorts of good stuff like fiber, protein, vitamin B, iron, and antioxidants. Plus, they're just plain yummy!
With just black beans, bacon, onion, cumin, salt, and cayenne, you can create numerous dishes in under 15 minutes.
Did you know that making your own tortilla chips can be a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought fried chips? Give it a try with our recipe for tortilla chips.
We love to make Fresh Salsa and Guacamole. They go great with the beans!
Don't forget the best part of having black beans in nachos, burritos, Tortillas, or just as a dip. You MUST have a nice cold beer or Margarita!!!!
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE? YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY THESE RECIPES:
- Black bean and rice - This is a really hearty dinner.
- Nacho's - Fun recipe using leftover chicken.
- White bean chili - This is a fun spin on chili
- Ham and Bean soup - You can never have too many soup recipes!
- Cheesy chicken taco dip - Fun dip that is great for game day
Bacon Black Bean Dip
A Few Things We Use
Ingredients
- 30 Ounces Black beans (2 - 15 ounce cans)
- 2 Slices Bacon or 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 teaspoons Cumin
- 1 Small Onion
- 1 Clove Garlic
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano
- 2 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper Optional
- 2 Ounces Cheddar Cheese
- 2 Tablespoons Low Fat Sour Cream
- Cilantro
- Salsa
Instructions
Beans
- Chop bacon and add it to a sauté pan. Cook over medium heat. Chop the onion. Note: If you are not using bacon, use 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once the bacon is cooked, add the chopped onion, salt, cumin, and garlic to the saute pan.
- When the onions are soft, add the black beans to the pan.
- While beans are cooking, mash them with a potato masher or use a metal spatula. As you smash the beans, the mixture will thicken.
- The bean dip is ready after the majority of the liquid has cooked down. Simply put the beans in a bowl. Serve with salsa, cheese, and chips.
Make bean Burrito or Bean Nachos
- BURRITO:Place about ¼ to ½ cup of beans in a flour tortillaSprinkle a Tablespoon of Cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)Place under broiler to melt the cheese. Take a minute or soRoll the BurritoAdd the amount of salsa you wantAdd ½ Tablespoon low-fat Sour Cream. Serve with a nice cold beer
- BEAN NACHOS:Place tortilla chips on a foil-lined cookie sheet.Place bean dip on the chips.Sprinkle cheese over beans.Place under broiler to melt cheesePut chips on a plate and sprinkle with green onions and cilantro.If you want, you can add sour cream
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