My husband always craves Mexican food—I think he was Mexican in another life! As a result, I have made family taco night a tradition in my house. I like setting up a taco bar so everyone can add whatever they want. You can use the protein and the toppings for the taco bar of your choice.

Taco Bar:

• Cooked protein
• Cooked bell peppers and onions
• Chopped cilantro
• Chopped tomatoes
• Crumbled Cotija cheese
• Sour cream
• Chile de arbol in oil
• Lime wedges (optional)
• Refried beans
• Tortillas (corn or flour)

Ingredients for the Refried Beans:

• 1 can of black beans
• 2 bacon slices, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of chile de arbol in oil or chipotle in adobo sauce (optional)
• 1 shallot or 1/4 cup onion
• Kosher salt to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the refried beans. Cook the bacon in a pan and set aside. Be careful not to overcook or burn the bacon, as it will change the flavor of the refried beans. In the bacon fat, cook the onions until translucent. Add the black beans, 1/4 cup of water, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the chile de arbol in oil. Return the bacon to the pan, mix well, and cook over low heat for about 2 minutes. Taste the seasoning, adjust if necessary, and add the mixture to a food processor.
2. Season the meat. In a pan, heat oil and cook peppers and onions until translucent and soft. Set aside. In the same pan, cook the chicken until cooked through, and in the meantime, set the bar. Place each topping in a separate bowl and have a spoon for them. Heat the tortillas before serving. I heat mine in a stainless steel pan without any oil, but you can use vegetable oil.

Now enjoy! 💫