Hatch Green Chili and Black Bean Tacos

Why You’ll Love These Hatch Green Chili and Black Bean Tacos

• Bold Southwest flavor from smoky roasted Hatch chiles and savory spices

• 100% vegetarian & nutritious—plant-based protein, fiber, and good fats

• Speedy & simple—30 minutes from prep to plate, with mostly pantry staples

• Make-ahead meal prep—beans and chiles can be cooked in advance

• Visual and viral—bright tacos decorated with fresh toppings perfect for social shares

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Ingredient Breakdown

Serves: 4 (2 tacos per person)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total: ~30 minutes

Taco Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups roasted Hatch green chiles, chopped (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 2 (15-oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• Avocado or guacamole

• Cotija cheese or vegan queso fresco

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Radish slices for crunch

• Lime wedges for brightness

• Hot sauce or salsa verde

Tortillas

• 8 corn or flour tortillas, warmed

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Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Prep Work

• If using fresh Hatch chiles, roast under broiler or on grill until blistered, steam in a bowl, peel, seed, and chop. Frozen or canned chiles can be used directly.

• Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp towel and microwaving for 30 seconds, or by heating in a dry skillet.

2. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet.

• Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft.

• Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.

3. Build the Filling

• Add chopped Hatch chiles and spices. Stir for 2 minutes to release aromas.

• Add black beans, stirring gently. Add ¼ cup water if mixture looks dry.

• Simmer 5–7 minutes until mixture is thick and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble the Tacos

• Spoon filling into warmed tortillas.

• Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, cilantro, and radishes.

• Squeeze fresh lime on top and serve with salsa or hot sauce.

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Tips & Variations

Make It Earthier or Hearty

• Add corn kernels, diced zucchini, or shredded carrot to the filling for more texture.

• Stir in shredded jack or cheddar cheese after beans are warmed for creaminess.

Protein Boost

• Fold in cooked brown rice, quinoa, or tofu crumbles for more substance.

Meal Prep Magic

• Store the bean-chile filling in fridge up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months.

• Reheat and serve fresh anytime.

Spice Level Control

• Mild heat: remove chile seeds or use mild Hatch variety.

• Extra heat: add diced jalapeño, serrano, or a dash of cayenne.

Tortilla Alternatives

• Use lettuce leaves for low-carb wraps.

• Choose corn or flour tortillas based on preference or dietary needs.

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What to Serve with These Tacos

• Mexican rice or Cauliflower rice for a balanced meal

• Cilantro-lime slaw or crunchy cabbage salad

• Chips & salsa verde or guacamole on the side

• Black bean & corn salad for a southwestern side

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Nutrition Snapshot (Per Taco Estimate)

Approximation based on standard toppings.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I cook these vegan?

Absolutely! Skip the cheese or use vegan cheese. The filling is fully plant-based already.

What if I don’t have Hatch chiles?

Use Anaheim, poblano, or canned fire-roasted green chiles instead. Flavor will vary slightly but still delicious.

Can I use dry beans?

Yes. Soak and cook until tender, then proceed. You may need slight oil or extra broth during sautéing.

How spicy are they?

Mild to medium by default. Hull your chiles for mild, or keep seeds and add hot peppers for more kick.

How long does filling stay fresh?

Store in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days.

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Why This Recipe Will Go Viral

• Eye-catching visuals: vibrant green chiles, colorful toppings – perfect for Reels and pins

• Meatless & hearty: taps into growing interest in plant-based and protein-rich vegetarian meals

• Quick & accessible: uses pantry staples and minimal effort, ideal for busy home cooks

• Crowd-pleasing: easy to customize for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike

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Chef Opera’s Final Thoughts

These Hatch Green Chili and Black Bean Tacos are one of my favorite easy meals — bold, fresh‑tasting, and fully customizable. They’re great for Taco Taco Tuesdays, vegetarian meal prep, or anytime you want a trending, satisfying bite without fuss.

Try it on repeat and share with #HatchChileTacos and @ChefOpera—I’d love to see your creations!