Vegan Taquitos

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your meals, Vegan Taquitos are the perfect solution! This recipe is not only a delightful twist on Taco Night but also an easy option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With crispy tortillas filled with tasty goodness, these taquitos will quickly become a favorite in your household.

What makes this Vegan Taquito recipe truly special is its versatility. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re oil-free and packed with nutrients, so you can enjoy guilt-free indulgence any day of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and quick prep time, Vegan Taquitos are easy to whip up any night.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy texture and flavorful fillings—perfect for getting them involved in the kitchen!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance and freeze for later; they’re just as delicious when reheated.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Healthy Twist: These taquitos are oil-free, packed with fiber, and full of wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Vegan Taquitos recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups Brown lentils (rinsed and picked over)
• 1 large White Onion (diced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Jalapeño (de-seeded and diced)
• 2 cans Rotel Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Green Chilies
• 4 cups Organic Vegetable Broth
• 2 packages Vegan Taco Seasoning or use your own brew

For Assembly

• 1 package Corn or Flour Tortillas (12 tortillas)
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Chili powder (sprinkled)
• 3 Jalapeños (de-seeded and sliced)
• Salsa of choice or hot sauce
• Vegan sour cream

Optional Fillings

You can choose from these delicious options:
* Mushroom chicken sausage Filling
* Potato Taco Filling
* Roasted Cauliflower Filling
* Walnut Taco Filling
* Tempeh Taco Filling

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you prefer.

• Swap the protein: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of brown lentils for a different texture.
• Change it up: Try adding corn or spinach into your filling for extra veggies!
• Spice it up: Add more jalapeños or some chipotle powder if you like things hot.
• Switch the tortillas: Experiment with whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.

How to Make Vegan Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Filling

Start by cooking your brown lentils in vegetable broth until they’re tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes. Cooking them slowly helps develop their flavor. While they cook, sauté your onions and garlic until they are fragrant and golden—this step adds sweetness to our filling!

Step 2: Mix in Other Ingredients

Once the lentils are soft, mix in the diced jalapeño, fire-roasted tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Let it simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together!

Step 3: Assemble Your Taquitos

Take a tortilla and spoon some filling onto one side. Roll it up tightly, then place seam-side down on a baking tray if you plan to bake them. If you’re air frying, make sure they’re arranged so there’s space between each one for optimal cooking.

Step 4: Cook Your Taquitos

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, air fry at 380°F (193°C) for around 8-10 minutes! Cooking them this way keeps them light while ensuring that crunch we all love.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Once cooked, serve these delightful Vegan Taquitos hot with salsa, vegan sour cream, and extra jalapeños if desired. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish that everyone will enjoy!

Enjoy making these Vegan Taquitos as much as I do! They’re sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Taquitos

Making vegan taquitos is not just about following the recipe; it’s also about adding your personal touch for perfect, flavorful results!

• Prep your fillings in advance: Whether you’re using lentils, potatoes, or cauliflower, preparing your filling ahead of time makes assembly quick and easy. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.
• Use the right tortillas: Opt for corn tortillas if you prefer a more authentic flavor and crunch. Flour tortillas can also be used but may require extra care to avoid tearing. Choose what suits your taste!
• Don’t overfill: It can be tempting to pack in all the delicious fillings, but overstuffing can lead to messy taquitos. Aim for 2-3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla, ensuring they roll up neatly.
• Experiment with seasonings: While the vegan taco seasoning is fantastic, don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin can enhance the flavor profile of your filling.
• Bake or air fry for crispiness: If you’re looking for a healthier option, air frying your taquitos will give them that crispy texture without the oil. Bake them on a parchment-lined tray if you prefer a traditional oven method.

How to Serve Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them beautifully for an enticing meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the taquitos just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a crunchy texture and a pop of color while balancing the flavors.
• Avocado slices or guacamole: Creamy avocado complements the crunchiness of taquitos perfectly, making it a must-have garnish!

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad made with grilled corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices adds sweetness and brightness that pairs wonderfully with spicy taquitos.
• Chili Lime Quinoa: Prepare quinoa tossed with lime juice and chili powder for a zesty side that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing offers a colorful companion that is both healthy and satisfying.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides balance to the hearty taquitos while keeping things fresh.

Enjoy crafting these delightful vegan taquitos and make every bite a celebration of flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Taquitos recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week, making your busy evenings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before sealing them to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
• If reheating refrigerated taquitos, you can warm them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes but consider using an air fryer or oven for that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Vegan Taquitos that might help you out!

Can I make Vegan Taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Vegan Taquitos are great for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy them.

What are some filling options for Vegan Taquitos?

You can get creative with fillings! Try mushroom chicken sausage, potato, roasted cauliflower, walnut, or tempeh fillings. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture!

How do I make vegan taquitos without oil?

This recipe is designed to be oil-free! The lentils and spices provide plenty of flavor without any added oil. Just be sure to use a non-stick air fryer or bake them on parchment paper.

Can I freeze my Vegan Taquitos?

Yes, you can freeze your Vegan Taquitos! Just make sure they are either pre-cooked or fully cooled before freezing. They’ll be ready whenever you’re craving something delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Vegan Taquitos! They’re not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re enjoying them on Taco Tuesday or as a fun snack anytime, I encourage you to try this recipe. Happy cooking!