Simple Bean Flautas

By Alqualonde

For those of you not acquainted with this Mexican taste treat, flautas (or taquitos) are small rolled tortillas that are filled and crisp fried. (I found that those made with corn tortillas are generally referred to as taquitos, and those with flour tortillas as flautas).

Ingredients

• 16-ounce can fat-free (vegetarian) refried beans
• 3 ounces cream cheese
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon hot chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 2 to 3 green onions
• 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 12 6-inch flour tortillas

Preparation

Step 1

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Chop the green onions. In a large bowl, combine 1 can refried beans, 3 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup salsa, 1 teaspoon hot chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, green onions, and 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly to combine.

3. Lay a tortilla on a work surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture in a thin line from the bottom of the tortilla (the 6 o’clock position) to the middle of the tortilla. Be careful not to use too much! Tightly roll the tortilla from the bottom (the filling will spread out and hold the tortilla together). Place the flauta seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.

4. When the flautas are assembled, brush the tops lightly with oil and sprinkle them with a bit of salt. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until crisp and browned. Serve with salsa and sour cream.