Air Fried Black Beans - Crunchy, High-Protein Snack
In the mystical realm of culinary magic, we found ourselves on a quest for the perfect snack. One sunny afternoon, while strolling through an ancient marketplace filled with vibrant spices and aromatic herbs, inspiration struck.
Berry, with his keen eye for nutritious delights, picked up a handful of black beans. “These humble beans are packed with protein and potential,” he said, envisioning their transformation.
Brie, ever the culinary sorceress, pondered aloud, “What if we could make these beans not just healthy, but irresistibly crunchy and flavorful?” Her mind danced with possibilities as she reached for a jar of smoky paprika.
And so, with a sprinkle of spices and a dash of creativity, our air fried black beans recipe was born. Now, we invite you to join us in our culinary quest, transforming ordinary beans into a crunchy, high-protein snack that adds a burst of magic to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans (or dried and cooked)
- 1 tbsp paprika (smoked if preferred)
- 0.5 tsp Himalayan pink salt (or any salt)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
Prepare the Beans
- Drain and rinse the black beans to remove any excess liquid and sodium.
- (Optional) Pat the beans dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels for extra crispiness.
Season the Beans
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients.
- Toss the beans gently until they are evenly coated with the spices.
Air Fry the Beans
- Spread the seasoned black beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Keep an eye on the beans towards the end of the cooking time to achieve your desired level of crunchiness.
Cool and Store
- Once the beans are as crunchy as you want, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If they lose crunchiness, re-air fry them for a few minutes.
Brie & Berry’s tips!
- Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of your air fried black beans. Try adding cumin, chili powder, or nutritional yeast for a unique twist.
- Make sure the beans are dry before air frying to get them extra crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Protein Snack
Enjoy them hot or cold as a quick grab-and-go high-protein snack. We often find ourselves snacking on these right from the air fryer.
Salad/Grain Bowl Topper
Add them to salads or grain bowls for extra texture, flavor, and protein. We have salads for lunch most days, and these beans always add the perfect crunch.
Sandwiches/Tacos/Wraps
We love texture variety! Use these beans in sandwiches or wraps for a smoky, crunchy texture. They’re a great substitute for bacon or bacon bits.
Eggs
These beans pair with eggs like peanut butter pairs with jelly. You’ve gotta try it!
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of beans? A: Yes, you can use other beans like chickpeas or kidney beans. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer? A: You can bake the beans in an oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Q: How do I keep the beans crunchy? A: Store them in an airtight container. If they lose crunchiness, re-air fry them for a few minutes.
Final Notes
Enjoy these air fried black beans as a crunchy, high-protein snack or a flavorful topping. Experiment with different spices for unique twists. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and try it out in various dishes for a delightful crunch and protein boost.
Servings
4 snacks or 2 meals