Vegan Lentil Tacos

These Vegan Lentil Tacos are a hearty, flavourful alternative to traditional tacos. Packed with spiced lentils, creamy avocado, and fresh salsa, they’re a quick, nutritious, and satisfying plant-based option perfect for taco nights.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Filling

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust for spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tacos

• 8 soft taco shells or tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
• 1/2 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Add-Ins

• Vegan sour cream
• Pickled jalapeños
• Hot sauce

Instructions

Cook the Lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Lentil Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chilli powder, and oregano, stirring to coat the onions. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Warm the Taco Shells

While the lentil filling cooks, warm the taco shells or tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat, or wrap them in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each taco shell with a generous scoop of the spiced lentil filling. Top with sliced or mashed avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime.

Serve

Serve immediately with additional toppings like vegan sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavour.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Lentil Tacos

• Choose the right lentils: Green or brown lentils hold their shape and texture best. Avoid red lentils as they can become too mushy.
• Add extra vegetables: Sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions to the lentil filling.
• Customise spice levels: Adjust the chilli powder or add hot sauce for more heat.
• Meal prep-friendly: The lentil filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

These Vegan Lentil Tacos are a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s easy to make and fun to customise. Perfect for a plant-based taco night, they’re sure to be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike!