Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
367 | 9g | 1.4g | 63g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
11g | 14g | 15g | 0.6g |
There’s a blast of flavors and textures that will dance on your palate with the Garbanzo Bean Tacos, one of my recent and heartfelt concoctions. As I’ve shared countless recipes and culinary stories, this one stands particularly close to my heart. Just like each delicious bite has layers to reveal, this recipe too is layered with inspirations and intentions.
Where It All Started
Born in Boston with Irish heritage, growing up I was familiar with a rich tapestry of culinary influences. Much of my cooking style is fueled by my Grandmother’s teachings which came from a land full of love, warmth and hearty comfort food. In a way, these tacos are reminiscent of the love served up in big bowls of Irish stew, or the hearty servings of sea harvested clam chowder, a New England classic.
The Recipe We All Need
As my dear Laura and I embark on the joyous journey of parenthood, health-centric meals have climbed to the top of our family menu. The Garbanzo Bean Tacos are an outstanding model of just that, with nutritious ingredients like garbanzo beans, carrying substantial fiber and protein, onion and garlic that add essential vitamins, and avocado, a treasure trove of healthy fats. It’s the healthful feast our bustling Bostonian family enjoys, and I hope yours will too. As far as a good companion dish goes, a vibrant Cilantro and Yogurt Salad or simple Mexican Rice can make a well-rounded meal.
A Recipe For All
This is a dish that might bring to mind Mexican street food, but with a healthier twist. It’s a courtesy to all those who crave exciting palates but still want to keep things light. These Garbanzo Bean Tacos brim with a medley of flavors from cumin and chili, while the fresh kick of lime juice and cilantro nods to the salsa in traditional tacos. And, whether you top it off with cheese or prefer a vegan version, the recipe remains accessible and adaptable.
Nourishing the Heart & Body
In essence, the Garbanzo Bean Tacos recipe marries my love for varied culinary influences with keenness for nutritious choices. It brings to the table a joyful mix of heartiness and health that any household can appreciate. And lastly, it embodies the belief that food doesn’t just nourish the body, but also the soul. Because each bite carries warmth of home, whispers of heritage and the sincere effort to keep my family nourished and happy. And that, to me, is the true essence of cooking and sharing a recipe.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients for Garbanzo Bean Tacos
- 2 15-ounce cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 jalapenos, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels, canned or frozen
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, and jalapenos. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Step Two
Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Cook for another two minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Step Three
Add the garbanzo beans and corn to the pan, stirring well to evenly distribute the spices. Cook until the corn and beans are heated through.
Step Four
Lower the heat, then add the cherry tomatoes and lime juice to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow flavors to meld. Cook for another two minutes.
Step Five
While the chickpea mixture is simmering, heat the tortillas on a griddle or in the microwave until they are warm. Prepare the avocado by slicing it into thin pieces.
Step Six
To assemble the tacos, place a spoonful of the garbanzo bean mixture on a tortilla. Top with slices of avocado, a sprinkle of grated cheese, some salsa, and sour cream if desired. Finish off with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro.
Step Seven
Repeat the assembly process with the remaining ingredients. Serve the tacos while they are still warm.