Vegan Taquitos

If you’re looking for a delicious and fun twist on Taco Tuesday, you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Taquitos are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or a family gathering, these taquitos will surely bring smiles all around. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they make an excellent choice for both kids and adults alike.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can choose from various fillings and tortillas, and even opt for your preferred cooking method. That means you can customize these taquitos to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious taquitos ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy texture, and you can sneak in those veggies without them noticing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling ahead of time, roll them up, and store in the fridge or freezer for later.
• Flavorful Options: The variety of fillings allows everyone to pick their favorite, making mealtime exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these tasty Vegan Taquitos, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups Brown lentils (rinsed and picked over)
• 1 large White Onion (diced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Jalapeño (de-seeded and diced)
• 2 cans Rotel Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Green Chilies
• 4 cups Organic Vegetable Broth
• 2 packages Vegan Taco Seasoning or use your own brew

For Assembly

• 1 package Corn or Flour Tortillas (12 tortillas)
• 1/4 cup Lime juice
• Chili powder (sprinkled)
• 3 Jalapeños (de-seeded and sliced)
• Salsa of choice or hot sauce
• Vegan sour cream

Filling Variations

You can also try one of these fabulous options:
* Mushroom chicken sausage Filling
* Potato Taco Filling
* Roasted Cauliflower Filling
* Walnut Taco Filling
* Tempeh Taco Filling

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using black beans or chickpeas for a different base.
• Add more spice: Mix in additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Go gluten-free: Use corn tortillas if you’re avoiding gluten.
• Include more veggies: Add in spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

How to Make Vegan Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by cooking the brown lentils in vegetable broth until they’re tender. This will take about 20 minutes. While they’re cooking, sauté your diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño in a non-stick pan until they’re fragrant and soft. This step adds layers of flavor that make your filling irresistible!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess broth. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lentils with sautéed vegetables and Rotel tomatoes. Stir in the vegan taco seasoning and lime juice until everything is well mixed. This combination creates a deliciously hearty filling that packs a flavor punch.

Step 3: Assemble Taquitos

Take a tortilla and spoon some of the filling onto one end. Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat this process until all your filling is used up! Rolling them tightly helps ensure they stay together while cooking.

Step 4: Cook Your Taquitos

You can either bake these taquitos at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown or air fry them for an even crispier texture! If using an air fryer, set it to 375°F and cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them perfectly crispy but not burnt!

Now that you’ve made these scrumptious Vegan Taquitos, enjoy them with salsa or vegan sour cream on the side! Each bite is sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Taquitos

Making vegan taquitos can be a fun and creative process, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect crunch and flavor!

• Choose the Right Tortillas: Using corn tortillas will give you that authentic taquito flavor, while flour tortillas offer a softer bite. Consider your preference for texture when selecting.
• Don’t Overfill: While it can be tempting to stuff your taquitos to the brim, overfilling can make rolling difficult and lead to breakage. Keep it simple for a better chance at a perfect roll.
• Use Oil-Free Cooking Methods: Air frying or baking without oil keeps these taquitos light and healthy. These methods allow for crispy results without the added calories.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to try different fillings like lentils, potatoes, or roasted veggies. Each option offers a unique taste that can keep your meals exciting.
• Serve Immediately: For the best crunch, serve your taquitos right after cooking. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crispiness.

How to Serve Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can present them! With colorful garnishes and delightful side dishes, you can create a feast that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole provide a rich contrast to the crunchy taquitos.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice elevates the dish with zesty brightness that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad combines corn, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and spices for a refreshing counterpart to your taquitos.
• Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and avocado creates a protein-packed side that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice is an excellent base that pairs wonderfully with your taquitos.
• Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring color and nutrition to your meal while adding tasty textures.

Enjoy crafting these delightful vegan taquitos with an array of garnishes and sides that enhance their scrumptiousness. Your family and friends will love this twist on Taco Tuesday!

Make Ahead and Storage

These vegan taquitos are a fantastic option for meal prep! They’re easy to make in bulk and store well, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the taquitos to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap each taquito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped taquitos in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy.
• Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
• Microwave reheating is quick but may result in less crunch—about 1-2 minutes on high should do it.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about vegan taquitos that might help you out!

Can I make Vegan Taquitos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the taquitos ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How long does it take to cook Vegan Taquitos in an air fryer?

Cooking Vegan Taquitos in an air fryer typically takes about 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Just keep an eye on them to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness!

What fillings can I use for Vegan Taquitos?

There are so many delicious options! Try using roasted cauliflower, lentils, tempeh, potatoes, or walnuts as fillings. Get creative with your favorite veggies and spices!

Can I freeze my Vegan Taquitos?

Yes, you can! Just wrap them well before freezing. They’ll stay tasty for about three months. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these vegan taquitos as I am! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these crunchy delights are sure to impress. Enjoy making them, and happy cooking!