Vegan Lentil Walnut Taco Meat Recipe

 Vegan Lentil Walnut Taco Meat is a flavorful, protein-rich plant-based filling that tastes just as hearty as traditional taco meat — but without any meat at all. Made from cooked lentils, toasted walnuts, and savory spices, this mix delivers a satisfying texture and bold, smoky taste perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or salads.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils (or ½ cup dry lentils cooked in water)

• 1 cup walnuts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ cup water or vegetable broth

• Juice of ½ lime

Cooking Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Serving

• Serves 4

Instructions

1. Toast the walnuts:
   
   In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let cool slightly, then pulse in a food processor until finely crumbled (not paste-like).

2. Prepare the lentils:
   
   If using uncooked lentils, simmer them in water until tender (about 20 minutes). Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté aromatics:
   
   Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.

4. Add flavor:
   
   Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

5. Combine:
   
   Add cooked lentils, ground walnuts, and water or broth. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened and slightly crispy on the edges.

6. Finish:
   
   Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve:
   
   Spoon into taco shells or tortillas and top with avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, or vegan cheese.

Tips

• Use green or brown lentils — red lentils are too soft for this recipe.

• For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 290

• Protein: 13g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Fiber: 8g

This Vegan Lentil Walnut Taco Meat is savory, satisfying, and packed with flavor — an easy way to enjoy tacos that are hearty, healthy, and completely plant-based.