Pumpkin Black Bean Enchiladas (GF Optional)

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (176 C).

Step 2

SAUCE: Prepare the sauce following this recipe. You’ll need ~1 batch or 4 ½ cups (1070 ml) sauce total for the enchiladas.

Step 3

FILLING: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. Add the bell pepper, kale, and salt and cook, stirring frequently, until the kale is wilted and no longer bright green — about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the drained and rinsed black beans, 3 cups (710 ml) enchilada sauce, and 1/4 cup (60 ml) water (adjust amounts if altering default number of servings). Stir and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat slightly, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the black beans to soak up the flavors of the sauce.

Step 5

ENCHILADAS: To make your tortillas more pliable and less prone to cracking (skip this step if using flour tortillas), place them in a single layer directly on the oven rack for about 30-60 seconds to heat through, then wrap in a clean dish towel to keep them warm. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp towel and microwave for 30 seconds.

Step 6

Pour ~1/2 cup (120 ml) of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch (or similar size) baking dish. Spread to coat the bottom of the dish.

Step 7

Take one tortilla and lay it down in the dish. Place a generous amount of filling (~1/2 cup) on one end, then roll it up and tuck the enchilada against the side of the baking dish, seam side down. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. If there’s any leftover filling, you can either add it to the casserole dish or serve it in quesadillas or bowls.

Step 8

Pour the remaining sauce (~1 cup or 240 ml) over the top of the enchiladas and use a spoon to distribute the sauce into the cracks. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and a little crackly on top.

Step 9

Served topped with sliced avocado and chopped cilantro (optional).

Step 10

Leftover enchiladas will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350-degree F (176 C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

Step 11

For freezing, we like to prepare the enchiladas up to the point of baking, then freeze unbaked (preferably in single-serving portions). When ready to cook, let thaw at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then reheat as instructed above.