When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the joy of a delicious vegan taco. The combination of spices, fresh citrus flavors, and crunchy shells is a match made in heaven.
And the best part? With an abundance of plant-based fillings available, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to enjoy this culinary delight. From cauliflower and mushrooms to beans and more, the options are endless. Here’s a selection of the most mouth-watering vegan taco recipes from around the web, perfect for experimenting with and indulging in.
Sriracha Cauliflower Wing & Garlic Sauce
Cauliflower has become a staple in many meat-free taco recipes, offering a straightforward plant-based twist on the classic Mexican dish. The key to achieving that signature crunch lies in the Panko breadcrumbs, which can be elevated with a trifecta of flavors: tangy barbecue sauce, spicy sriracha, and zesty fresh lime juice. What sets this recipe apart is its streamlined prep time of just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks. To take it to the next level, a rich vegan yogurt garlic sauce adds a creamy and savory element that pairs beautifully with the roasted cauliflower.
BBQ Sauce Crunchy Panko Broccoli
Indulge in the sweet and tangy delight of vegan crack broccoli tacos, where crispy broccoli takes center stage. A refreshing alternative to traditional meat-topped options, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet meat-free twist.
To create the crispiest broccoli, combine it with breadcrumbs, apple cider vinegar, and your preferred dairy-free milk. Then, elevate the flavor by dressing it in barbecue sauce. The result is a culinary masterpiece that’s both bold and tantalizing.
This recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare, requiring only 30 minutes of total time – including cooking. For an added layer of cool, try drizzling your broccoli tacos with Green Goddess dressing for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Pulled King Oyster Mushroom
When it comes to protein-packed meat alternatives, mushrooms are an excellent option for tacos. One variety, the king oyster mushroom, can be shredded and cooked with soy sauce and other savory ingredients in a frying pan. When paired with a simple salsa, lettuce, and vegan sour cream, the result is a fresh, meat-free, and utterly delicious taco experience.
To take it to the next level, consider preparing this dish a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Simply add diced tomatoes, onions, coriander, and chopped lettuce to give your tacos that classic flavor profile. And as an added bonus, this pulled mushroom taco recipe just so happens to be gluten-free.
Cauliflower, Mushroom & Walnut
Crafting delicious vegan taco meat requires a thoughtful blend of ingredients. At the heart of this recipe lies a trifecta of cauliflower, mushrooms, and walnuts – or their substitutes – which form the foundation for a flavorful and textured filling. Simply process these components in a food processor until they’re well combined, then heat them up with a dash of seasonings like soy sauce, chili powder, and paprika in a skillet. The result should be a vegan taco meat that rivals its ground beef counterpart in terms of consistency. This versatile base can be used as the starting point for an array of creative vegan taco dishes – from traditional tacos to innovative enchiladas, burritos, or nachos.
Crunchwrap Supreme
I’m not afraid to push the boundaries of traditional taco-making with this unique recipe. Instead of a traditional shell, I’ve opted for a vegan burrito-inspired coating that still delivers on flavor and texture. To start, cook lentils according to package instructions, then season them in a pan with your favorite spices. Next, layer the lentils with vegan nacho cheese and your preferred toppings on top of a crispy tostada. Fold everything together into a wrap, place it in a sandwich bag, and you’re ready for a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s perfect for snacking or lunching on-the-go.
Buffalo Cauliflower
Indulge in a spicy twist on traditional veggie fillings by combining the flavors of buffalo cauliflower tacos with your favorite plant-based wing sauce. This recipe is packed with flavor, featuring buffalo sauce generously applied before being topped with edamame for a boost of protein, fresh avocado for creaminess, and vibrant purple cabbage for added color and crunch. The end result is a visually stunning dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
To recreate this mouth-watering meal, start by coating cauliflower florets in a mixture of flour, garlic powder, and onion powder before tossing them in buffalo sauce. Once cooked through, fill tortillas with the spicy cauliflower and add your preferred toppings. For a cooling contrast, serve with a side of creamy cashew cream dip to help balance out the heat.
Chipotle Portobello
Portobello mushrooms have proven to be an exceptional meat substitute in my culinary experiences. I’ve successfully utilized them to mimic the texture of burgers, and they also make a great filling for tacos. When it comes to creating a chipotle marinade, combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with garlic, cumin, and coriander. Brush portobello mushrooms and bell peppers with this marinade and roast them in the oven until tender. Add some pickled onions on top for a tangy burst of flavor that perfectly balances out the dish. Try using this recipe as a starting point to create your own low-calorie chipotle portobello tacos, featuring sheet-pan prepared mushrooms and rich refried beans. The chipotle adds a smoky and spicy element, while the avocado and pickled onion combination provides a delightful contrast of flavors.
Black Bean Tacos
The star of the show is undoubtedly the harmonious union of black beans and guacamole, nestled within a gluten-free taco shell that’s as comforting as it is creative. A dash of salsa and spice powder gives the black beans a subtle kick, while sautéed onion and garlic add depth to this straightforward yet satisfying dish.
What makes these vegan black bean tacos a budget-friendly option is the ease with which you can prepare black beans – they’re a protein-packed powerhouse that’s quick to cook. Top them with guacamole, romaine lettuce, salsa, and shredded cheese for a filling meal that won’t break the bank.
Take it to the next level by whipping up some dairy-free cheese sauce for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. With its impressive protein content, this taco recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation – and can be prepared in just 20 minutes, no less.
Vegan Tacos
Vegan tacos offer an exciting canvas for creativity, allowing you to craft unique flavor profiles by experimenting with various bases, toppings, and condiments. While this recipe provides suggestions for alternative bases and salsas, it highly recommends pairing cauliflower with a sweet and spicy mango salsa. To prepare the cauliflower base, toss it with oil and seasonings before roasting it in the oven until tender. Meanwhile, combine diced mango, tomato, jalapeños, and other ingredients to create a mouthwatering salsa that will elevate your vegan tacos. Don’t forget to add a creamy touch with some guacamole – this recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to get creative! Try making adjustments to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the limitless possibilities of this versatile vegan taco recipe.
Spicy Jackfruit
While many meat alternatives can’t quite replicate the taste and texture of meat, jackfruit stands out as a notable exception. Its unique characteristics make it an excellent substitute in various dishes, including this flavorful recipe that combines the fruit with yellow onion, red cabbage, salsa, and chimichurri. To unlock the full potential of jackfruit’s flavor profile, it’s crucial to ensure it receives sufficient moisture before adding any seasonings. With just one pan required, this spicy jackfruit tacos recipe is not only a culinary delight but also gluten-free and refined sugar-free.
Mushroom Tacos
When it comes to winning over new vegans or skeptics who still crave the taste and texture of meat, vegan recipes that convincingly mimic the real deal are perfect introductory dishes. For instance, by mincing chestnut mushrooms in a food processor, baking them, and seasoning them to perfection, you’ll be left with a surprisingly meat-like experience.
To elevate this dish even further, combine cashews with apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and water to create a tangy vegan sour cream. Top it off with some pungent red onions for an added burst of flavor.
But don’t stop there! Add pickled red onion and a squeeze of lime juice to take this dish to the next level. Not only will you be impressed by the depth of flavors, but you’ll also appreciate how easy it is to prepare these mushroom meat tacos in under an hour.
Cauliflower Taco Meat
Transforming meat into a plant-based alternative has never been easier with the versatility of cauliflower. One such recipe that stands out is the one-pan cauliflower walnut crumble, which not only mimics the taste and texture of meat but also offers a multitude of uses in various dishes. To start, process together walnuts, onions, and jalapeño peppers until you have a smooth mixture. Then, combine this blend with cooked cauliflower and bake to perfection. The result is a nutritious taco filling that boasts approximately 7 grams of protein per serving. For those seeking a nut-free alternative, simply substitute the walnuts for sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or additional cauliflower. This recipe’s simplicity makes it an ideal canvas for creative experimentation and adaptation into various meals.
White Bean
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures in these scrumptious white bean tacos, packed with a medley of spices, tangy slaw, and zesty green sauce. The harmonious blend of mild and bold notes creates an addictive taste experience. White beans bring more than just flavor to the table, offering an impressive array of essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and others. These nutritious legumes are also surprisingly easy to prepare. Begin by sautéing red onions and jalapeños, then add your cooked white beans and salsa until well combined. Meanwhile, craft the tangy jalapeno cilantro sauce by blending together the pungent peppers with vegan mayo. With this delectable recipe, you can enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Buffalo Cauliflower
When it comes to creating these mouth-watering buffalo cauliflower tacos, it’s all about using wholesome ingredients. To start, simply combine chopped cauliflower with oil, buffalo sauce, and seasonings in a bowl. Then, pop the mixture into the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once cooked, add some freshness with toppings like red onion and spinach, and balance out the spiciness with a rich and creamy avocado crema. This recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Breakfast Tacos
Kick-start your morning with a deliciously unexpected twist – vegan breakfast tacos! These flavorful and nutritious treats are packed with roasted potatoes, tofu scramble, and your choice of toppings. Simply toss cubed potatoes with seasonings and bake for 30 minutes to create the base of this easy recipe. For added protein, throw in some tofu crumbles. Then, customize with vegan shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream, or try an egg alternative for a classic breakfast taste. Feel free to get creative by adding vegan sausage crumbles on top. There’s no reason why tacos can’t be enjoyed at any time of day – so go ahead and start your morning off right!
Bang Bang Cauliflower
Experience the perfect blend of spicy and savory with these paleo-friendly bang bang cauliflower tacos. By replacing traditional tortillas with crisp lettuce cups, this recipe not only caters to vegan diets but also complies with whole30, AIP, and paleo standards. The real star of the show is the oven-roasted cauliflower, infused with bold flavors from the Bang Bang sauce and garnished with a trio of radish, cilantro, and sriracha for added depth. Finish off this plant-based appetizer by drizzling it with creamy avocado crema. In short, these meat-free tacos pack a flavor punch that will leave you wanting more.
Tasty Tex-Mex Tofu & Mushroom
Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Americanized Mexican flavors, characterized by the use of unconventional ingredients like black beans and canned vegetables. One simple yet flavorful Tex-Mex taco dish starts with tofu as its foundation, requiring minimal preparation equipment: a food processor, mixing bowl, and large baking sheet. In a mixing bowl, combine processed mushrooms and tofu with salsa, lime juice, and Mexican seasoning for a harmonious blend. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake to perfection. The result is a gluten-free, nut-free, and oil-free filling that’s bursting with flavor thanks to crumbled tofu cooked at high heat in the oven and seasoned with spices. These tacos are an excellent option for individuals adhering to specific dietary restrictions, as they’re free from common allergens.
Crispy Chick’n Tacos
Gardein’s Chick’n is a soy-based, meatless alternative to chicken that’s so convincing, even the most devoted meat-lovers might not be able to tell the difference. This game-changing vegan taco recipe takes it to the next level – simply combine the Chick’n with some saucy goodness, sliced red onion, and jalapeno for a meal that’s both quick and mouth-wateringly delicious.To take it to the next level, whip up a simple spicy sauce by mixing together vegan butter spread, garlic, honey, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Then, pop it in the microwave and let the magic happen! The result is a flavorful fusion of crispy Chick’n tacos and fresh, homemade toppings – simply add your own personal touches to make it uniquely yours.
Smashed Chickpea Tacos & Jalapeño Cream Sauce
To create a flavorful and textured taco filling, combine jalapeño cream with smashed chickpeas. The result is a refreshing blend that’s perfect for topping tacos with. Alongside the chickpea mixture, add a zesty slaw made by marinating lime juice and sliced radishes. For an added kick, include serrano peppers and a sprinkle of cilantro for garnish.The beauty of using chickpeas lies in their ability to mimic meat’s texture while providing a boost of nutrition. To prepare the chickpeas, combine them with red onion and taco seasoning in a pan, then simmer until desired consistency is achieved. Once mashed to your liking, add the mixture to tortillas along with lettuce, cabbage, and a squeeze of lime juice. Finish with a drizzle of jalapeño cream sauce for an added layer of flavor.Next time you’re craving a meaty texture without the meat, give this smashed chickpea taco recipe a try. Remember to remove the skin from the chickpeas for the best results – it’s easier to do so in a large bowl of water.
Falafel Taco Pockets
While traditional tacos often rely on meat as their primary protein source, falafels offer a satisfying and flavorful alternative. These bite-sized morsels are made by blending together lentils, various vegetables, and spices in a food processor or blender. When paired with an assortment of colorful vegetables and wrapped in a crispy tortilla, the result is a nutritious and filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day. For added flavor and texture, this recipe takes the extra step of making falafels from scratch, eliminating unnecessary oils and amplifying their natural taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy packed lunch, these falafel taco pockets are sure to hit the spot.
Fajita Tacos with Chipotle Garlic Sauce
Streamlining cooking has never been easier or more flavorful than with sheet pan meals. This recipe is the epitome of simplicity, as all the components come together in one harmonious dish. The real magic happens when a chipotle pepper marinade meets tender vegetables and creamy avocado, resulting in a rich, zesty flavor that’s sure to become a new favorite taco dinner.
Crunchy Cauliflower & Broccoli
Taco enthusiasts often find common ground in breaded fillings, making them a crowd-pleaser. When you can combine these crunchy veggie tacos with a rich and creamy dairy-free cilantro sauce, the result is nothing short of delightful. The harmonious union of textures and flavors is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Soy Chorizo & Potato with Salsa Verde
For those familiar with the world of cured meats, there’s no denying that chorizo stands out as a uniquely flavorful and spicy option. This vegetarian alternative captures the essence of what makes chorizo so great – its bold flavor profile and satisfying texture – while leaving behind any drawbacks. When paired with a rich potato filling and served as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to please even the most dedicated meat-eaters. Check it out for yourself!
