I’m a huge fan of tacos — who isn’t? For meat eaters, vegetarian tacos might seem pretty boring. However, it’s SO easy to get creative and try different fillings. I mean, honestly… almost anything works inside a tortilla!

Here are some of my favorite out-of-the-box taco recipes:

But if you’re looking for a basic yet flavorful as-close-as-you-can-get-to-taco-meat taco, then THIS is the recipe for you: Lentil Walnut Tacos!

The lentils + walnuts combine to create a filling that’s meaty in flavor with a great texture. Carrots add to the heartiness, and a dash of chipotle powder add smokiness and heat. I also love this filling for burritos and taco salads. Trust me — once you try it, it will quickly go into your monthly meal rotation!

INGREDIENTS

1 pat of butter or 2 T. olive oil
3 large carrots, peeled & shredded
1 yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1-2 T. minced garlic
1 T. vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 T. apple cider vinegar
2 t. ground cumin
2 t. chili powder
2 t. dried oregano
1 t. chipotle powder
1 t. smoked paprika
Black pepper, to taste
6 oz. chopped walnuts
8 oz. tomato sauce
1/2 c. vegetable broth
2 c. cooked brown lentils
14 oz. tomatillo enchilada sauce (I prefer the Gran Luchito brand)

STEPS

1) Melt the butter or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.

2) Add the carrots, yellow onion and green bell pepper and cook for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3) Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes.

4) Add the Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, chipotle powder, smoked paprika and oregano. Season with black pepper. Stir well to combine.

5) Add the walnuts, tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent the mixture from sticking.

6) Add the lentils and enchilada sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, or until most liquid has been absorbed/evaporated. Continue to stir often so the mixture doesn’t stick.

7) Serve with your favorite tortillas and toppings!