| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 12g | 2g | 53g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 13g | 15g | 1.2g |
Growing up under the California sun and surrounded by the abundant produce of the West Coast, it’s no surprise that I’ve developed a love for fresh, vibrant ingredients. One of my most cherished recipes, the Spicy Tarwi Tacos, is a testament to that devotion. This dish harmoniously combines nutritious ingredients in a singularly flavorful and satisfying way. It’s not just a taco – it’s a taste tour through the best of West Coast culinary culture.
Embracing the Power of the Lupini Bean
The star of this recipe is the tarwi, also known as the lupin bean – a plant-based protein that’s been enjoyed in Andean cultures for centuries. Compassionate cooking with an emphasis on plant-based ingredients is something that’s been rooted in me since adopting my three children. If there’s one thing they’ve taught me, it’s that food needs to be not just delicious, but also nourishing. The good news is that Tarwi checks both those boxes. It’s got a hearty flavor, and is full to brimming with protein, essential amino acids, and fiber. A regular serving can help control cholesterol, support heart health, and even aid in weight loss.
A Cascade of Color and Flavor
Getting the kids to eat more veggies was initially a challenge, but this Spicy Tarwi Tacos recipe turned out to be a game-changer. The colorful combination of mango, red bell pepper, and red onion is not only a feast for the eyes but is also teeming with vital vitamins and antioxidants. The mango lends a touch of tropical sweetness, while the fresh herbs and chili kick things up a notch, resulting in a perfect balance of flavors. Resulting in a symphony that has made it a family favorite.
And finally, there’s the finish – a sprinkle of queso fresco, a squeeze of lime juice, and everything is brought together in a scrumptious harmonious blend. You can serve these tacos with a simple side of Cilantro Lime Rice or a fresh Avocado Salad for a complete, balanced meal.
There you have it – my Spicy Tarwi Tacos. A color-bursting, flavor-packed, heart-healthy recipe that pays tribute to my Californian roots and my passion for nourishing my family. I hope you and your loved ones will enjoy it as much as we do!
What You’ll Need
- 18 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups of tarwi (lupin beans), pre-cooked
- 2 cups of mango, diced
- 1 cup of red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup of red onion, diced
- 2 jalapenos, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 cup of queso fresco or mild feta cheese, crumbled
- For garnish: lime wedges and additional cilantro (optional)
Method
Step One
First, heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. After the oil is hot, add the diced red bell pepper, red onion, and minced jalapenos into the skillet. Sauté these ingredients until they become softened, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes.
Step Two
In this step, stir in the pre-cooked tarwi (lupin beans) as well as the chili powder. You should also add a bit of salt and pepper, pivoting it to your taste. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and the tarwi is heated through.
Step Three
While the skillet ingredients are cooking, you should prepare your mango salsa. Combine diced mango, chopped fresh cilantro, the juice of two limes, as well as a bit of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Make sure to fully mix these components together.
Step Four
After the tarwi mixture is ready, warm up your corn tortillas. You can do this either in a dry skillet over medium heat or directly over the flame of a gas stove.
Step Five
When everything is prepared, it’s time to assemble your Spicy Tarwi Tacos. Lay out a warmed tortilla and spoon some of the tarwi and pepper mixture into the center. Top it off with a generous spoonful of the mango salsa and sprinkle it with the crumbled queso fresco or mild feta cheese.
Step Six
Finally, garnish your tacos with additional chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if desired. Repeat the assembly process for the remaining tortillas, then serve the tacos immediately while they are still warm. Enjoy your homemade Spicy Tarwi Tacos.
