Lentil Walnut Taco Meat

Here’s a delicious and hearty recipe for Lentil Walnut Taco Meat that’s vegan, nutritious, and perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls!

Lentil Walnut Taco Meat

Yield: 6 Servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dry green or brown lentils (or 2 cups cooked lentils)
  • 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any oil of choice)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbs chili powder
  • 1 tbs ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
  • 2 cups cup vegetable broth (or water)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional, for added tang)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Lentils:
    • If using dry lentils, rinse them under cold water and place them in a pot with 2 ½ cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Walnut Mixture:
    • In a food processor or by hand, pulse or chop the walnuts until they resemble a coarse meal. Set aside.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Combine the Spices:
    • Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for another minute to bring out the flavors.
  5. Mix in the Lentils and Walnuts:
    • Add the cooked lentils and walnuts to the skillet. Stir to combine with the onions and spices.
    • Add the tomato paste, soy sauce or tamari, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Finish with Lime Juice:
    • Once the mixture is heated through and the flavors are well combined, remove from heat and stir in the lime juice for a burst of freshness.
  7. Season to Taste:
    • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.

Serve:

  • Spoon the lentil walnut taco meat into taco shells, tortillas, or over a salad. Top with your favorite taco toppings like avocado, cilantro, salsa, or vegan sour cream.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor: Add 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast to the taco meat for a cheesy, umami flavor.
  • To make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños, more cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Enjoy your vegan lentil walnut taco meat!