Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Black Bean and Rice Burritos (or tacos)

Tomato sauce is sold in 8 oz cans in the same aisle that carries canned whole tomatoes. Do not use jarred pasta sauce in its place. There’s no need to prepare all of the toppings listed below, but cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes are, in my opinion, essential.

Ingredients

Filling

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or corn oil
1 small onion, chopped small (about 2/3 cup)
3 medium cloves garlic , minced or pressed through garlic press (about 1 tablespoon)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
table salt
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed [I prefer Goya brand]
1 8-oz can plain tomato sauce
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or veggie broth or water)
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons vinegar (preferably cider vinegar)
Ground black pepper
Hot cooked rice

Shells and Toppings

flour tortillas (or taco shells)
shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese
shredded iceberg
small tomatoes, chopped small
sour cream
avocado, diced medium
red onion, chopped small
minced fresh cilantro leaves
Salsa or hot pepper sauce, such as Tabasco



Instructions
1. Heat oil in medium skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes; add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, spices, and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add beans, tomato sauce, broth (or water), brown sugar, and vinegar; bring to simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently until liquid has reduced and thickened (mixture should not be completely dry), about 10 minutes. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper.

Add as much hot cooked rice as you want and stir into the bean mixture until well distributed throughout.


2. Spoon filling into warmed tortilla (or taco shell), add toppings, and enjoy!

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