Lentil Tacos (Easy Vegan Green Tacos) cover

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Lentil Tacos (Easy Vegan Green Tacos)

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Lentil Tacos (Easy Vegan Green Tacos)

¾ cup unsalted walnuts

1 cup green lentilscooked

1 onion

4 cloves garlicminced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 tsp chili powder

½ tsp dried oregano

¼ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp pepperfresh ground

½ tsp salt

3 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup vegetable broth

½ tsp saltto taste

½ tsp olive oil

Begin by rinsing the lentils in a fine mesh sieve to remove any impurities. Transfer them to a medium-sized pot and add a few cups of water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer the lentils for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until they become tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of lentils you're using, so refer to the package instructions for guidance.

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the walnuts evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Toast the walnuts for about 10 to 13 minutes.

Transfer all the toasted walnuts to a food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped.

Heat ½ to 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and peppers to the skillet and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. Then, add the minced garlic and the spice mixture, (2 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon oregano, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt) and tomato paste to the skillet and continue cooking for another minute or two, stirring frequently.

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the pepper and onion mixture. Cook for a few more minutes until the mixture is heated through.

Pour in the broth. Cook the mixture for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the lentils to absorb the broth.

Add the chopped, toasted walnuts to the skillet. Gently stir to fully combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

While the lentil and walnut filling is simmering, take this opportunity to warm tortillas and prepare your choice of vegetable toppings. Add salt to taste.

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Toast Your Spices First 🔥
Bloom the cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano in olive oil for 30-45 seconds before adding onions and garlic to unlock deeper, more complex flavors in your lentil filling.
Pulse Walnuts for Texture 🌰
Pulse walnuts into small, chunky pieces rather than finely grinding them—this creates a satisfying meat-like texture that mimics ground taco meat while maintaining structural integrity.
Cook Lentils al Dente ✨
Remove green lentils from heat when they're still slightly firm (not mushy), as they'll continue cooking when combined with the warm spice mixture and won't turn into paste during assembly.
Reduce Liquid for Concentration 💧
After combining lentils and walnuts with the spice mixture, simmer uncovered until the vegetable broth reduces by half—this concentrates flavors and prevents soggy tacos from excess moisture.
Warm Your Tortillas Properly 🌮
Char tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a dry skillet for 20-30 seconds per side to develop subtle smokiness that complements the earthy lentil filling and adds textural contrast.