There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a freshly baked taquito, especially when it’s filled with delightful, wholesome ingredients. Picture this: a cozy evening after a long day, and the aroma of savory lentils mixed with zesty spices wafts through your kitchen. That’s what you can expect when you whip up these Vegan Taquitos!
Baked or air-fried to golden perfection, they deliver all the flavor we love without compromising on health. As someone who treasures homemade meals, I can attest to how versatile and kid-approved these beauties are. With options ranging from lentil taco meat to roasted cauliflower, you can easily cater to everyone’s taste, turning an average Taco Tuesday into something truly special. Plus, with their gluten-free corn tortillas, they’re a guilt-free snack that feels indulgent without being heavy. Let’s dive into this recipe that not only satisfies cravings but also brings joy to your dining table!
Why Are These Vegan Taquitos a Must-Make?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these taquitos bursts with flavor, thanks to a savory lentil filling and a zesty kick from jalapeños.
Health-Conscious: Baked or air-fried, they cut out the excess oil, giving you a crunchy treat that’s guilt-free.
Endless Variations: From mushroom chorizo to roasted cauliflower, you can switch up the fillings to cater to every palate.
Kid-Approved: These taquitos are a hit with kids, making them perfect for family dinners or parties.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Using corn tortillas ensures that everyone can enjoy these delicious snacks without gluten worries.
Vegan Taquitos Ingredients
For the Filling
- Brown Lentils – Provide protein and texture; substitute with precooked lentils to save time.
- White Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with yellow onion for a different flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; consider garlic powder for a milder option if desired.
- Jalapeño – Offers a delightful heat; omit for a milder taste or replace with bell pepper for natural sweetness.
- Rotel Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Green Chilies – Adds acidity and spice; feel free to substitute with any diced tomatoes.
- Organic Vegetable Broth – Keeps lentils moist during cooking; homemade broth or water can work in a pinch.
- Vegan Taco Seasoning – Provides an essential spice blend; create a custom blend for personalized flavors.
For the Taquitos
- Corn Tortillas (12) – The base for your taquitos; choose corn for a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
- Lime Juice (¼ cup) – Brightens flavor and balances ingredients; lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
- Chili Powder – Sprinkled for an extra kick; smoked paprika can create a delightful twist in flavor.
For Serving
- Salsa/Hot Sauce – Perfect for dipping; substitute with store-bought or homemade salsa based on preference.
- Vegan Sour Cream – Adds a rich creaminess; consider cashew cream or avocado as tasty alternatives.
These Vegan Taquitos are sure to become a family favorite, bursting with flavors and wholesome goodness!
How to Make Vegan Taquitos
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Prepare Tortillas: Heat your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they’re pliable, which ensures easy rolling. For flour tortillas, there’s no need to heat them.
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Cook Filling: Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño in a pan using vegetable broth instead of oil. When the onions turn translucent, stir in the brown lentils, 3 cups of broth, one can of tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir in the remaining can of tomatoes and cook until thickened. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
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Assemble Taquitos: On a flat surface, take a warm tortilla, spoon about 4 tablespoons of the lentil filling onto one side, and roll it up tightly. Repeat until you’ve used all the filling.
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Season and Cook: Lightly brush your taquitos with fresh lime juice and sprinkle them with chili powder for an enticing kick.
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Cooking Methods:
- Air Frying: Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 7-10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F, arrange the taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake them for around 20 minutes until they reach a delightful crunch.
Optional: Serve with fresh guacamole on the side for an added creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Taquitos
- Moisten Tortillas: Always heat and lightly moisten your corn tortillas before rolling; this prevents cracking and ensures perfect taquitos.
- Preheat Air Fryer: For the best cooking results, always preheat your air fryer before adding vegan taquitos; this helps them achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- Diverse Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with unique fillings like roasted cauliflower or mushroom chorizo; this keeps your vegan taquitos interesting and caters to different tastes.
- Batch Cooking: If cooking in batches, keep finished taquitos warm in the oven on low heat to maintain their crispiness while the others cook.
- Check for Doneness: Cook until taquitos are golden brown and crispy to ensure they’re deliciously crunchy, striking a balance between texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Vegan Taquitos?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement these crispy, flavorful treats.
- Mexican Rice: This classic side is fluffy and perfectly seasoned, balancing the savory flavors of the taquitos with a comforting base.
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a fresh, cool contrast to the spicy crunch of the taquitos, making each bite heavenly.
- Southwest Salad: Light and vibrant, this salad combines mixed greens, black beans, and corn, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette that enhances every flavor.
- Zesty Salsa: A fresh, vibrant salsa not only provides the ideal dipping sauce but also brings a burst of fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts with the taquitos.
- Vegan Sour Cream: This creamy addition cools down any spice while adding richness to the experience, making it a scrumptious dipping option.
- Spicy Hot Sauce: For those who like an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce on the side invigorates the dish and adds an exciting burst of heat.
- Grilled Vegetables: A colorful platter of grilled veggies adds a smoky flavor and a nutritious touch—perfect for balancing the meal.
- Margaritas: Pair your meal with a refreshing margarita; its citrusy zing perfectly complements the robust flavors of the taquitos.
- Dark Chocolate Flan: Finish on a sweet note! This luxurious dessert provides a rich contrast and earthy depth to round out your meal beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Taquitos
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze assembled but uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: From frozen, air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy these Vegan Taquitos at their best!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Taquitos are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to streamline your meal planning! You can make the lentil filling up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. To assemble, simply heat your tortillas, fill them with the lentil mixture, and roll them up right before cooking. For optimal texture, keep the assembled taquitos in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or air-frying. This way, they remain just as crispy and delicious when it’s time to finish cooking. Enjoy effortless weeknight meals without sacrificing flavor!
Vegan Taquitos Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delicious vegan taquitos with these tempting variations!
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Mushroom Chorizo: Substitute lentils with a flavorful mushroom chorizo mix for a hearty, savory twist. The umami flavor elevates every bite!
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Spiced Potato: Use mashed potatoes mixed with cumin and paprika as a filling. This creates a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunch.
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Roasted Cauliflower: Swap in roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with garlic and onion for a lighter filling that bursts with flavor. The slight sweetness pairs wonderfully!
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Walnut Crumble: Blend walnuts into a fine crumble for a nutritious, protein-packed option. Add spices to make them taste just like taco filling!
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Tempeh Tex-Mex: Crumble tempeh and sauté with taco seasoning for a meat-like texture. It’s a fantastic source of plant protein while keeping it satisfying.
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Smoky Sweet Potato: Mash sweet potatoes with smoked paprika for a comforting, sweet-savoury filling. The smokiness will make your taste buds dance!
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Cheesy Spinach: Incorporate sautéed spinach with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It adds richness and nutrients to your taquitos.
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Extra Heat: For the spice lovers, add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to your chosen filling for a fiery kick. Prepare for some flavorful heat!
Let these variations inspire a new favorite recipe that caters to every craving!
Vegan Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
For the best flavor, choose ingredients that are fresh and ripe. Look for lentils that are dry and free of cracks. When selecting onions, opt for those that feel heavy for their size and are firm to the touch. For jalapeños, choose ones that are vibrant in color without dark spots.
How long can I store leftover Vegan Taquitos?
Store your leftover Vegan Taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheated in the oven or air fryer, they will regain their crunch and flavor.
Can I freeze Vegan Taquitos, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Vegan Taquitos, assemble them uncooked and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my taquitos crack when rolling?
To prevent cracks in your tortillas, ensure they are well-moistened and warmed before rolling. If you’re still experiencing issues, consider using flour tortillas, as they are generally more pliable.
Are Vegan Taquitos safe for allergies?
Yes, they can be allergy-friendly! As always, check the labels on your tortillas and seasonings to ensure they meet your dietary needs. If you’re sensitive to any specific ingredients, like gluten or soy, stick to certified gluten-free corn tortillas and check for gluten-free taco seasoning.
How can I make my taquitos spicier?
For a spicier kick, add more jalapeños to your filling or include diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or substitute with a spicier salsa for dipping. Spice it up according to your taste!
Vegan Taquitos That Everyone Will Love: Crunchy & Delicious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Tortillas: Heat your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they're pliable, which ensures easy rolling.
- Cook Filling: Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño in a pan using vegetable broth instead of oil. Stir in the brown lentils, broth, tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Assemble Taquitos: Take a warm tortilla, spoon about 4 tablespoons of the lentil filling onto one side, and roll it up tightly.
- Season and Cook: Brush your taquitos with lime juice and sprinkle with chili powder.
- Cooking Methods: Air fry at 400°F for 7-10 minutes until golden or bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes.