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Poblano Pumpkin Seed Enchiladas with Black Beans Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Poblano Pumpkin Seed Enchiladas with Black Beans Recipe

I’ve tried many enchilada recipes, but these Poblano Pumpkin Seed Enchiladas with Black Beans quickly became my favorite. The creamy pumpkin seed sauce is rich yet light, paired perfectly with a savory black bean and poblano filling.
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 399

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 2 poblano peppers chopped
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 14 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 3/4 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 6-8 corn tortillas
  • 4 oz shredded cheese vegan optional
  • Avocado red onion, toasted pumpkin seeds
  • 1 cup hulled pumpkin seeds
  • 1 small bunch cilantro
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 3/4-1 cup vegetable stock or water
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt more to taste

Method
 

  1. I start by soaking the pumpkin seeds in boiling water. This softens them perfectly for a smooth sauce. Covering the bowl traps heat and speeds up the soaking.
  2. In a skillet, I sauté onions in oil until translucent. Then I add garlic, poblano, and jalapeño until softened. Half of these veggies are reserved for the sauce.
  3. To the remaining veggies, I stir in cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, black beans, and rice. Simmer briefly, then finish with lime juice. This creates a rich and flavorful filling.
  4. I drain the seeds and blend them with the reserved veggies, cilantro, lime juice, oil, and stock until creamy. I taste and adjust salt as needed for a perfect sauce consistency.
  5. I microwave tortillas to make them pliable. Spread sauce on the dish, fill each tortilla with the bean mixture, roll them up, and place seam-side down. Top with remaining sauce and cheese, then broil briefly.
  6. Finally, I add avocado slices, toasted pumpkin seeds, and cilantro on top. This not only looks beautiful but adds fresh texture.

Notes

  • I always soak pumpkin seeds overnight for an ultra-smooth sauce.
  • Using fresh cilantro makes the sauce vibrant and flavorful.
  • I gently warm tortillas in the microwave instead of frying to keep it light.
  • Toasting pumpkin seeds adds a subtle crunch and nutty aroma.