Lentil Tacos Recipe

Introduction

Lentil tacos are a hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on a classic favorite. Packed with spices and tender lentils, they make a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. neutral-flavored oil, such as canola or vegetable
• 1 white or yellow onion, diced
• 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• ½ tsp. ground coriander
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• ½ tsp. smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp. Mexican-style hot sauce, such as Cholula (optional)
• 12 hard or soft taco shells

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste, kosher salt, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the rinsed lentils and water or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the lid and stir in the Mexican-style hot sauce if using. If there is too much liquid remaining, simmer uncovered for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking.
6. Step 6: Heat the taco shells according to package directions. Serve the warm lentil mixture with the shells and your favorite taco toppings like grated cheese, diced tomato, and lettuce.

Tips & Variations

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the lentils before serving for brightness.
• Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Swap brown or green lentils for red lentils for a softer texture, but watch the cooking time as red lentils cook faster.

Storage

Store leftover lentil filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving. Taco shells are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several days.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make lentil tacos vegan?

Yes! Simply omit cheese or any dairy toppings and use vegan-friendly taco shells and condiments.

Can I prepare the lentil filling in advance?

Absolutely. The lentil mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Lentil Tacos Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 63 reviews

These Lentil Tacos are a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian alternative to traditional meat tacos. Made with seasoned brown or green lentils simmered with spices and tomato paste, they offer a hearty filling that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Serve them with your favorite taco shells and fresh toppings for a delicious, plant-based meal.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 tacos 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Lentil Filling

• 2 Tbsp. neutral-flavored oil, such as canola or vegetable
• 1 white or yellow onion, diced
• 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• ½ tsp. ground coriander
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• ½ tsp. smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp. Mexican-style hot sauce, such as Cholula (optional)

For Serving

• 12 hard or soft taco shells
• Grated cheese (optional)
• Diced tomato (optional)
• Lettuce or other preferred taco toppings

Instructions

1. Sauté Onion: Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, kosher salt, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Continue sautéing for an additional minute until the mixture becomes fragrant.
3. Cook Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils and water or vegetable broth to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently until the lentils are tender, approximately 20 minutes.
4. Adjust Liquid and Add Hot Sauce: Remove the lid and check the consistency. If there is excess liquid, simmer uncovered for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired thickness. Stir in the Mexican-style hot sauce if desired, then remove from heat.
5. Warm Taco Shells and Serve: Heat the taco shells according to package instructions. Spoon the warm lentil filling into the shells and serve with grated cheese, diced tomato, lettuce, or any of your favorite taco toppings.

Notes

• Using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the lentil filling.
• Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
• Feel free to customize your tacos with avocado, salsa, cilantro, or sour cream for added texture and taste.
• If you prefer softer taco shells, warm them wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 30 seconds.
• Lentils can also be cooked ahead of time and reheated to save time during assembly.

Keywords: lentil tacos, vegetarian tacos, meatless tacos, plant-based tacos, easy lentil recipe, Mexican vegetarian recipes