Description
These Lentil Tacos offer a hearty and flavorful plant-based filling perfect for a vegetarian or vegan meal. Loaded with protein-rich lentils and seasoned with smoky spices, they create a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat tacos. Easy to prepare on the stovetop and customizable with your favorite toppings, these tacos are gluten-free when served with the appropriate tortillas and ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Lentil Taco Filling
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils (rinsed)
- 2 ½ cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- Taco shells or tortillas (gluten-free if needed)
- Toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, or sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spices and tomato paste: Mix in tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom and combine with the aromatics.
- Combine lentils and spices: Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir well to incorporate all the flavors. Cook together for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
- Assemble tacos: Spoon the seasoned lentil mixture into taco shells or tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, salsa, shredded cheese, or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can use canned lentils for a quicker version—just rinse and drain them before adding to the skillet.
- For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos before serving.
- This recipe is great for meal prep and reheats well.
