Enfrijoladas

Enfrijoladas are one of Mexico’s most humble yet heartwarming dishes. This traditional comfort food wraps soft corn tortillas in a blanket of silky black bean sauce, filled with crumbled queso fresco and fresh herbs. The flavor is rich, earthy, and surprisingly indulgent despite its simplicity. It’s proof that a few pantry staples can create something truly satisfying and soul-soothing.

Perfect for meatless Mondays, quick weeknight dinners, or weekend brunch spreads, enfrijoladas offer a flexible base to suit any palate. You can top them with chopped onions, cilantro, crema, or even add shredded chicken if you’d like to turn them into a heartier dish. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or a longtime fan, these enfrijoladas will definitely earn a spot in your rotation.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1/2 small white onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 8 corn tortillas

• 1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion (optional for garnish)

• 1/4 cup crema or sour cream (for drizzling)

• Hot sauce, to taste (optional)

Directions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon of oil until translucent, about 3 minutes.

2. Add black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Transfer mixture to a blender or food processor. Add chicken broth and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness with more broth if needed.

4. Return bean sauce to the skillet and simmer on low for 5 minutes.

5. Heat remaining oil in a separate skillet. Lightly fry each tortilla for 10–15 seconds per side, just until pliable.

6. Dip each tortilla into the warm bean sauce, fill with a spoonful of queso fresco and a bit of cilantro, then fold or roll.

7. Arrange enfrijoladas on a plate, spoon more sauce over the top, and garnish with crema, extra queso fresco, chopped onions, cilantro, and hot sauce if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings (2 enfrijoladas per person)

Authentic Mexican Enfrijoladas: A Creamy Black Bean Favorite

Enfrijoladas are a cherished staple in traditional Mexican cuisine: simple, hearty, and deeply comforting. Often compared to enchiladas, enfrijoladas take a different turn by bathing corn tortillas in a smooth, velvety black bean sauce rather than chili or tomato-based sauces. The result is a rich, earthy dish that blends rustic flavors with creamy textures, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights, vegetarian dinners, or a flavorful brunch that strays from the usual eggs and toast.

Originating from Central Mexico, enfrijoladas have long been a way to repurpose leftover beans and tortillas, two fundamental ingredients in the Mexican pantry. The dish is highly versatile and humble in nature, making it a perfect reflection of the Mexican culinary tradition of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. From family homes to roadside fondas and modern Mexican restaurants, enfrijoladas are loved for their flexibility, affordability, and satisfying flavor.

A Closer Look at the Core Ingredients

The magic of enfrijoladas lies in their simplicity. At the heart of this dish are three elements: tortillas, black beans, and cheese. But the possibilities for customization are vast.

1. Black Beans (Frijoles Negros):
This is the star ingredient of the dish. The beans are either freshly cooked or canned, then blended into a smooth, creamy sauce with aromatics such as garlic, onion, and a touch of cumin for warmth. Some versions include epazote, a traditional Mexican herb that adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor. The beans can be thinned with broth chicken or vegetable, depending on your dietary preference.

2. Corn Tortillas:
Corn tortillas provide the ideal texture and structure for enfrijoladas. They are first softened either by warming or lightly frying so that they’re pliable enough to fold or roll without tearing. Dipping them into the warm black bean sauce is what gives enfrijoladas their iconic look and taste. Using day-old tortillas is common, as they hold up better once sauced.

3. Queso Fresco and Toppings:
Crumbled queso fresco a mild, crumbly white cheese is the classic filling, offering a creamy contrast to the beans. Other traditional toppings include Mexican crema (similar to sour cream), chopped white onions, and fresh cilantro. Some home cooks like to add a bit of grated cotija cheese or even a sprinkle of Monterey Jack if they want a more melty filling.

Versatility for Every Taste

One of the reasons enfrijoladas remain a favorite is their incredible adaptability. While they’re often vegetarian, they can easily be made more filling by incorporating shredded chicken, scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables, or chorizo. This makes them an excellent “base” recipe to use up leftovers while still delivering a cohesive and flavorful dish.

For spice lovers, adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the black bean mixture gives a smoky heat that’s absolutely delicious. You can also add jalapeños or hot sauce to customize the spice level to your liking. On the flip side, if you’re cooking for children or people with milder palates, the beans can be kept mellow and creamy without added heat.

Traditional vs. Modern Interpretations

In traditional Mexican households, enfrijoladas are often made with freshly boiled beans cooked with aromatics and herbs, and then hand-blended or mashed for a slightly rustic texture. Lard may be used for added richness and authenticity. However, modern interpretations lean into convenience without sacrificing taste, using canned beans, skipping the frying, or even making the dish vegan-friendly by opting for plant-based cheese and broth.

Restaurant-style enfrijoladas might come with more elaborate fillings and presentations: drizzled with colorful sauces, paired with fresh avocado, or served alongside rice and pickled onions. The beauty of this dish is that it’s just as delicious whether served on a weeknight family table or plated artfully for a dinner party.

Health Benefits and Dietary Adaptations

Despite its comfort food status, enfrijoladas can be a very nutritious dish. Black beans are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like folate and magnesium. They support heart health, aid digestion, and help keep blood sugar levels stable. When paired with corn tortillas, beans also create a complete protein, making this meal especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans.

Those with dietary restrictions will also find enfrijoladas accommodating. They’re naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free or vegan. Simply substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based sour cream or yogurt for topping.

If you’re counting calories, you can skip the step of frying the tortillas and instead warm them on a dry skillet or in the microwave. You can also opt for low-sodium beans and limit added oils to keep the dish as light as possible.

Serving Suggestions

Enfrijoladas are typically served warm and fresh out of the pan, but they also reheat beautifully, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with:

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice

• A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette

• Fried plantains or roasted sweet potatoes

• Pickled red onions for a tangy contrast

• Sliced avocado or guacamole for added creaminess

For brunch, serve enfrijoladas alongside scrambled eggs or a fried egg on top for a satisfying morning meal.

Cultural Significance

Enfrijoladas are more than just a dish, they represent tradition, resourcefulness, and the heart of home-cooked Mexican meals. In many households, they’re associated with family dinners, shared laughter, and the aroma of beans simmering on the stove. They’re often passed down through generations, with each family having its own twist whether it’s a secret spice, a preferred bean texture, or a beloved topping.

Even beyond Mexico, enfrijoladas are gaining recognition for their depth of flavor and versatility. They’re a delicious way to introduce others to the warmth and soul of Mexican cuisine, all while using everyday ingredients that are accessible in most parts of the world.

Conclusion

Enfrijoladas are proof that simple food can be the most satisfying. Made from pantry staples like beans and tortillas, this dish transforms into a creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that feels like a warm embrace. Whether you stick to the traditional version or add your own twist with extra fillings or spice, enfrijoladas are guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ideal for both meat-lovers and vegetarians, quick weeknight meals or special Sunday brunches, this recipe fits any lifestyle or taste preference. As you experiment with your own versions, you’ll discover how endlessly adaptable and flavorful this humble Mexican classic truly is.

So go ahead and make a batch, load them up with your favorite toppings, and share this delicious tradition with those you love. You might just find yourself coming back to it again and again.