Description

Lentil Tacos are a flavorful, vegan-friendly alternative to traditional meat tacos. Packed with protein-rich lentils simmered in a blend of aromatic spices and tomato paste, this dish delivers hearty taste and texture without any animal products. Served in crispy taco shells or soft tortillas and topped with fresh vegetables and dairy-free options, these tacos are perfect for an easy plant-based dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For Lentil Filling

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To Serve

Taco shells or tortillas
Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa, dairy-free sour cream, shredded cheese

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Instructions

Heat the Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
Add Lentils and Flavorings: Pour in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to blend the spices evenly with the lentils.
Simmer the Lentils: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Adjust Consistency: If there is still excess liquid, remove the lid and cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a taco meat-like consistency.
Mash for Texture: Use the back of a spoon to lightly mash some of the lentils in the skillet, creating a heartier texture that mimics ground meat.
Season and Taste: Taste the lentil filling and adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavors.
Serve Tacos: Spoon the warm lentil mixture into taco shells or tortillas. Add your choice of optional toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa, dairy-free sour cream, or shredded cheese, then serve immediately.

Notes

You can prepare the lentil filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño peppers while cooking the lentils.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired