Vegan Lentil Taco Meat
This Vegan Lentil Taco Meat will become a favorite protein option for any taco-loving vegans! This recipe is the perfect addition to an easy taco night, and it's got some great savory and smoky flavors. Pairs well with just about any taco toppings you desire! (In my house we love pairing it with tomatoes, lettuce, guacamole, salsa, and vegan cheese).*Note that From Start to Finish is an estimate that includes 30 minutes to cook your lentils and prep your ingredients, and 25 minutes to complete the recipe directions.
Ingredients
- ½ medium yellow onion - diced
- 2 cloves garlic - minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ½ tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cooked brown lentils*
- ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ½ tablespoon tamari
- ½ tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- Optional: ⅓ cup cilantro - chopped
Instructions
- Bring a medium nonstick deep pan to medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add just a bit of water to prevent sticking, and add your onion and garlic. Allow to sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding small amounts of water as needed to prevent sticking.
- Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and salt to the pan. Mix until combined.
- Add your cooked lentils, liquid smoke, tomato paste, veggie broth, and tamari to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break up any clumps of tomato paste, and mix to combine everything.
- Bring your mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until desired consistency is reached, typically between 5-10 minutes. (The longer it cooks, the thicker it'll get!)
- Add the maple syrup, lime juice, and optional cilantro to the pan. Mix to combine.
- Add to your tacos of choice and enjoy!
Notes
*Cooked brown lentils: note that ½ cup of uncooked brown lentils creates approximately 1 cup of cooked brown lentils. You may cook your lentils according to package directions, or in the instant pot.
If cooking in the instant pot: dump ½ cup uncooked brown lentils and ¾ cup water or veggie broth into instant pot. Set to High Pressure for 8 minutes. When the cycle is complete, let it Naturally Release for 10 minutes, and then move the valve to Venting and allow to Quick Release.
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