Kidney beans & Cottage cheese Tacos

We are in middle of festive season and there is so much to do.  Decorations, shopping, sending invites, entertaining guests and the list goes on.  This is exactly why we need recipes which save time and still tick all the right boxes of what a Party Snack should look and taste like.  For eg.  It should look drool worthy, taste should be spot on (both tangy and spicy notes) and ofcourse should be super-duper easy. 

This taco recipe is all things just that and more.  It is high in protein.  What else do we want?  

Each taco can easily carry approx. 6 to 7g of protein.  

These delicious Rajma aka kidney beans tacos combine spicy kidney beans, crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing and crispy taco shells. 

Ingredients

For the kidney bean filling

• 1 cup cooked kidney beans (rajma), drained
• 100g Cottage cheese (Paneer)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 tsp oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika or red chilli powder
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For assembling the tacos

4 taco shells

For toppings :

• 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
• 2 tbsp hung curd or Greek yoghurt
• Lime wedges and fresh coriander

Method

Prepare the beans: Lightly mash about half the cooked kidney beans with a fork, leaving the rest whole for texture.

To make the filling: Heat oil in a pan. Sauté the onion until soft, add tomato and spices, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add the kidney beans, crumbled paneer (cottage cheese)  and a splash of water. Cook for 4–5 minutes, then finish with lemon juice.

To assemble the tacos:  Warm the taco shells according to the packet instructions. Add the bean filling, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese.

Add the finishing touch: Mix hung curd with a little lime juice and pepper. Drizzle over the tacos, garnish with coriander and serve immediately.

Nutritional benefits

• Protein: Kidney beans, yoghurt and cottage contribute plant and dairy protein.
• Fibre: Rajma supports digestive health and helps you feel full.
• Iron and folate: Kidney beans provide both important nutrients.
• Vitamins and antioxidants: Tomatoes and leafy vegetables add vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
• Avocado is a great source of healthy fats