Our Veggie Kitchen

I usually make tacos about once a week.  The kids all love them, and I can mix them up by changing up the fillings.  I love to have Lentil Filling, or Spanish Rice or sauce them up with a cheese sauce or Pepita Mojo, but sometimes, I just want a fast meal.  Beans and bulgur fit the bill perfectly.  They take about a minute of prep work and the bulgur simmers while you chop the tomatoes, lettuce, etc and heat the tortillas.  It's tasty & healthy, simple to prepare and cooks quickly.  The bulgur gives the beans a meaty texture and offers an easy way to get some whole grains into your day.



Beans & Bulgur
1/2 tbs vegetable oil
1/2 onion, chopped
1/2 cup bulgur
1 cup water
1 tbs taco seasoning (see below)
15 oz can re-fried beans
1/2 lime, juiced

Heat the oil in a small sauce pan and add the onions. Saute until soft, then add the bulgur, water and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover and simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir in the re-fried beans and lime juice and reheat, if necessary.

4 servings: 172 cal (2g fat, 31g carbs, 8g protein)

Taco Seasoning
Here is the spice blend I use for taco seasoning. You can use your own or a packet, but check your labels. I found that a number of brands sneak in things like powdered milk and whey.

1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper