Vegan Taco Meat with Cauliflower and Walnuts Recipe
This Vegan Taco Meat Recipe uses cauliflower and walnuts to create a flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional taco meat. Packed with smoky chipotle and chili spices, this easy-to-make taco filling is perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, delivering a satisfying texture and rich taste without any animal products.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag of riced cauliflower or one small head of cauliflower
- 4–5 chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup walnuts (optional)
Seasonings & Sauces
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the vegan taco meat.
- Process Ingredients: Combine all ingredients except tomato paste and adobo sauce in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles ground beef-like texture. Transfer this mixture to the preheated skillet, then add the tomato paste and adobo sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Cook Vinegar Meat Mixture: Cook the mixture over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to blend and moisture to reduce slightly.
- Simmer on Low: Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasonings to taste. If the mixture dries out or sticks to the pan, add a splash of water and stir to prevent burning.
- Serve: Once cooked through and flavorful, remove from heat and serve as desired in tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Notes
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice texture and healthy fats.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and chipotle powder to control the heat level.
- If using fresh cauliflower instead of riced, pulse it well in the food processor for best texture.
- Adding a splash of water during cooking helps prevent sticking and dryness.
- This vegan taco meat stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Keywords: vegan taco meat, cauliflower taco meat, plant-based taco filling, walnut taco meat, vegan Mexican recipe, healthy taco meat alternative
