Crispy Vegetarian Burritos
If you’re on the lookout for a satisfying and colorful meal, these Crispy Vegetarian Burritos are just the ticket. With a delightful blend of black beans, corn, and spices wrapped in a warm tortilla and then pan-fried to golden perfection, these burritos are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. They make for a perfect lunch or dinner option, offering a fulfilling experience without the meat. Plus, they’re easy to customize to your liking!
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to achieving perfect Crispy Vegetarian Burritos lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The black beans provide a hearty base, while the corn adds a sweet crunch. The spices elevate the overall taste, and the cheese binds it all together, melting beautifully in the heat. When you pan-fry the burritos, they develop a crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful filling. Each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors!
Ingredient Notes
- 15 oz black beans: Canned black beans are convenient; just rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
- 1/2 cup corn: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn; just make sure to drain it if it’s canned.
- 1/2 bell pepper, chopped: Any color works, but red or yellow will add sweetness.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion will add a nice flavor base.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil: Use your favorite oil or butter to sauté the vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper: These spices provide warmth and depth to the filling.
- Juice of 1 lime: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors.
- 1.5 cups mozzarella or Mexican blend shredded cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well.
- 2 cups cooked rice (Optional): Adds bulk and makes the burrito even more filling.
- 8 medium flour tortillas: Soft flour tortillas are perfect for wrapping up the filling.
- Oil or cooking spray for pan: Necessary for achieving that crispy texture.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large skillet: For sautéing the filling and frying the burritos.
- Spatula: To flip the burritos while they cook.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
Crispy Vegetarian Burritos Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the corn and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Add the black beans, cilantro, lime juice, and all the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Rice
Remove the skillet from heat. If using, mix in the cooked rice and 1 cup of shredded cheese until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the filling mixture onto the center of the tortilla, then sprinkle with a little additional cheese. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 5: Fry the Burritos
In the same skillet, add a bit of oil or cooking spray to coat the bottom. Once hot, place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once crispy and golden, remove the burritos from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Slice in half and serve with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings!
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach.
- Include roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory contrast.
- Top with avocado or a fresh salsa for added flavor and creaminess.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Overfilling the burritos can lead to a messy outcome. Stick to about 1/2 cup of filling.
- Not sealing the burrito properly will result in a leaking filling during frying.
- Using cold tortillas can make them brittle. Warm them slightly before filling.
- Skipping the pan-frying step means missing out on that delightful crispy texture!
Make-Ahead & Storage
These Crispy Vegetarian Burritos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and then assemble and fry them when you’re ready. Alternatively, you can assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cook them from frozen; allow for extra cooking time.
Quick Q&A
Can I use different beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto beans, kidney beans, or any other variety you prefer.
What can I serve with the burritos?
These burritos pair wonderfully with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a fresh salad.
Can I bake these burritos instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
How do I reheat leftover burritos?
Reheat burritos in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, making sure to cover with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Healthy Vegetarian Burritos
- Pinch of Yum – Burrito Bowl
- Minimalist Baker – Vegan Burrito Bowl
Wrap-Up
These Crispy Vegetarian Burritos are not just a meal; they’re an experience! Each bite is filled with a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. They’re simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family dinner, or a gathering with friends, these burritos are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a delicious vegetarian feast!
Crispy Vegetarian Burritos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the corn and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the black beans, cilantro, lime juice, and all the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the skillet from heat. If using, mix in the cooked rice and 1 cup of shredded cheese until everything is evenly coated.
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the filling mixture onto the center of the tortilla, then sprinkle with a little additional cheese. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- In the same skillet, add a bit of oil or cooking spray to coat the bottom. Once hot, place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Once crispy and golden, remove the burritos from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Slice in half and serve with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Feel free to incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach.
- Wrap burritos tightly in foil for freezer storage.
