Description
This Walnut Taco Meat is a quick and delicious plant-based alternative to traditional taco fillings, using walnuts and shiitake mushrooms for a savory, textured flavor. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying vegan taco night, this recipe combines smoky spices and soy sauce to mimic the rich taste of seasoned meat in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Walnut Taco Meat
- 2 cups raw walnuts
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or more as needed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 5 oz shiitake mushrooms, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Walnut Mixture: Add the raw walnuts, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin to a food processor. Pulse for 5 seconds to break down the walnuts and evenly distribute the spices. While the processor is running, slowly pour in the soy sauce and pulse for about 20 seconds, ensuring the mixture resembles ground meat without over-processing.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced shiitake mushrooms and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms become soft and slightly browned.
- Combine and Warm: Add the walnut mixture to the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir thoroughly to combine and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the walnut taco meat is warmed through. Adjust seasoning with more salt as desired before serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to over-process the walnut mixture to maintain a meat-like texture.
- Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, but add more cautiously to avoid over-salting.
- This recipe is versatile and can be used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or salads.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Keywords: walnut taco meat, vegan taco filling, plant-based taco recipe, meat substitute, walnut mushrooms taco
