Black Bean Croquettes with Fresh Salsa

Crispy, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein, these Black Bean Croquettes with Fresh Salsa are a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for any occasion. Made with hearty black beans, aromatic cumin, and a touch of chili powder, the croquettes are pan-fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Paired with a zesty homemade salsa featuring juicy tomatoes, red onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and an optional kick of jalapeño, this dish balances rich, savory flavors with bright, tangy freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy vegetarian recipe that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Serve these croquettes warm, and let their vibrant flavors make your mealtime unforgettable.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups black beans, cooked
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 0.25 cup vegetable oil
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 0.5 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with some small bean pieces remaining for texture.

Step 2

Add the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.

Step 3

Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and stir until the mixture holds together. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water.

Step 4

Form the mixture into small patties or croquettes, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate while you prepare the salsa.

Step 5

To make the fresh salsa, combine the diced tomato, red onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 6

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the croquettes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 7

Cook the croquettes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 8

Serve the black bean croquettes warm with the fresh salsa on the side. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(857.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1571.9

Total Fat 61.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 33.6g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4111.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 216.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 48.2g	0%
Total Sugars 17.0g
Protein 58.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 252.0mg	0%
Iron 17.0mg	0%
Potassium 2008.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.4%

Protein: 14.2%

Carbs: 52.5%