Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil: For sautéing the aromatics and creating a golden-brown crust on the tortillas.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup): Adds a foundational aromatic sweetness.
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a pungent, savory depth.
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained: The star protein and fiber source, pre-cooked for convenience.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste): Adds a gentle heat and classic Tex-Mex flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, but recommended): Brings a burst of freshness and brightness.
- 4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas: The vessel for our delicious filling; large ones are easier to fold.
- 1.5 – 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or a mix): For that irresistible gooey, melted texture and cheesy flavor.
- Optional: 1/4 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen, thawed): Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color): For added crunch, color, and a hint of sweetness.
- Butter or cooking spray for the pan/griddle: To ensure the quesadillas don’t stick and get wonderfully crispy.
Instructions
- Prepare the Black Bean Filling: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. If using diced bell pepper, add it along with the onion.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Incorporate Beans and Seasonings: Add the rinsed and drained black beans, corn kernels (if using), ground cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Mash and Simmer: Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently mash about one-third to one-half of the beans against the side of the skillet. This helps the filling bind together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro, if using.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread about one-quarter of the black bean mixture evenly over one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle generously with about 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese (or your desired amount) over the beans.
- Fold and Cook: Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press down.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Heat a large non-stick skillet, griddle, or comal over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a little butter or cooking spray.
- First Side: Carefully place one or two assembled quesadillas in the hot pan (do not overcrowd). Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is completely melted and gooey. You can press down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the quesadilla seal.
- Flip and Cook Second Side: Using a wide spatula, carefully flip the quesadilla and cook the other side for another 2-4 minutes until equally golden and crisp.
- Repeat: Remove the cooked quesadilla from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling, adding more butter or cooking spray to the pan as needed.
- Serve: Let the quesadillas rest for a minute or two before cutting them into wedges with a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 25g