Walnut Taco Meat

This recipe is an easy way to make vegan walnut taco meat: it has all the flavors of traditional taco meat but uses walnuts instead of ground beef. It has a magically similar look, taste, and texture to taco meat that will surprise even the most avid carnivores!

About this Vegan Walnut Taco Meat

This is a simple recipe that uses raw walnuts as the base. There are no other add-ins to the 'taco' meat itself, except for onion, garlic, and some seasonings. The goal in creating this recipe was to mimic how beef taco meat is made; but swapping out beef for walnuts.

The recipe definitely has a 'nuttier' flavor than traditional taco meat, but it's a tasty compliment to the taco seasonings.

The primary flavors you'll taste in the recipe are the taco seasonings and delicious saltiness + acidity from the soy sauce and fresh lime juice.

Serving Ideas

You can use this walnut taco meat as a substitute for anywhere you would use regular taco meat!

Some popular ideas include:

• Soft or hard shell tacos
• Nachos
• Burritos
• Taco bowls
• Enchiladas
• Quesadillas

Be sure to also add all of your favorite taco toppings: cilantro, avocado, vegan cheese, salsa, red onions, etc. One of our favorite toppings for when we make this recipe is a drizzle of our of 5 Ingredient Vegan Cashew Queso.

Walnut Taco Meat Ingredients

• Walnuts
• Yellow onion
• Garlic minced
• Olive oil
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Soy sauce 
• Lime

Substitutions

• Walnuts: the walnuts should be raw and can be in whole or half pieces
• Soy sauce: substitute tamari sauce or coconut aminos to make this recipe gluten-free
• Lime juice: the option is to use the juice of a freshly-squeezed lime, but you can also substitute 1 tablespoon of lime juice from concentrate
• Cayenne pepper: if you're craving some spice, add cayenne pepper as part of your seasonings (start with ⅛ or ¼ teaspoon)

How to Make Walnut Taco Meat

Step 1: Pulse the Walnuts 

Use a food processor or blender (or chop them by hand) to pulse the walnuts until they are chopped but some large chunks remain. Avoid over-blending your walnuts as they will turn mushy. Set aside. 

Step 2: Cook Onion & Garlic 

To a large skillet over medium high heat, add the oil. Saute the onion for 3 - 4 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. 

Step 3: Add Seasonings 

Turn the heat to medium low. Add the cumin and chili powder and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. 

Step 4: Cook Walnuts 

Add the walnuts and cook for 2 - 3 minutes, stirring often. Pour in the soy sauce, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to mix. Cook 4 - 5 minutes more, stirring frequently, until the walnuts are heated through and lightly browned. 

Step 5: Serve 

Serve immediately in your favorite tacos or tacos bowls. 

FAQ

If you try this recipe, I would love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment at the bottom of this page. And if you share a photo on social media, I'd love to see it! You can tag me on: Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.

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