Vegan Taquitos

Switch up Taco Tuesday with oil-free, crunchy Vegan Taquitos. These delightful treats are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. With various filling choices and cooking methods, this vegan taquito recipe stands out for its versatility and kid-friendly appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Preparation takes only 20 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable cooking experience.
• Flavorful Fillings: Choose from a variety of delicious fillings such as roasted cauliflower, lentils, or tempeh to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: These taquitos are oil-free and packed with nutritious ingredients, perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Cook your taquitos in the oven or an air fryer for crispy results every time.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love assembling their own taquitos, making it a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking these flavorful Vegan Taquitos, gather the necessary tools to streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Provides a healthier way to achieve that crispy texture without oil.
• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking your taquitos if you choose the oven method.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining all your fillings easily without mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Helps you prep ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To create these savory Vegan Taquitos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups Brown lentils (rinsed and picked over)
• 1 large diced White Onion
• 2 cloves minced Garlic
• 1 Jalapeño de-seeded (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

Optional Fillings

Choose from any of these options:
* Mushroom chicken sausage Filling
* Potato Taco Filling
* Roasted Cauliflower Filling
* Walnut Taco Filling
* Tempeh Taco Filling

How to Make Vegan Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a pot, combine brown lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, jalapeño, Rotel tomatoes, vegetable broth, and taco seasoning.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer until lentils are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid if needed.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place a tortilla on a flat surface and add about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 3: Cook the Taquitos

• For Air Fryer:
• Arrange taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

• Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

• For Oven:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until crisp.

Enjoy your homemade Vegan Taquitos with salsa, hot sauce, or vegan sour cream!

How to Serve Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. From casual appetizers to hearty meals, you can elevate your dining experience with the right accompaniments.

Fun Dipping Sauces

• Salsa Fresca: A fresh blend of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that adds a zesty kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime and spices for an irresistible dip.
• Vegan Sour Cream: A smooth and tangy alternative perfect for balancing flavors.

Fresh Toppings

• Sliced Jalapeños: Add some heat with thin slices of fresh jalapeños.
• Chopped Cilantro: Brighten up your taquitos with this fragrant herb.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavor profile.

Meal Ideas

• With Rice and Beans: Pair your taquitos with a side of seasoned rice and black beans for a fulfilling meal.
• In a Salad Bowl: Crumble taquitos over a bed of greens with your favorite veggies for a nutritious option.

How to Perfect Vegan Taquitos

Creating the perfect vegan taquitos is easy when you follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

• Choose the Right Tortillas: Opt for corn or flour tortillas based on personal preference; both work well but offer different textures.
• Pre-cook Fillings: Ensure that your chosen filling is cooked through before wrapping it in the tortillas to enhance flavors.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep the fillings modest to avoid tearing the tortillas during rolling or cooking.
• Seal Properly: Use a little water or vegan sour cream to seal the edges for better cohesion during cooking.
• Experiment with Spices: Customize your taco seasoning by adding extra spices like cumin or smoked paprika for depth.
• Try Different Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to air fry or bake, both methods yield delicious results; just adjust time as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with vegan taquitos can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with vegan mayo, lime juice, and chili powder offers a sweet and savory complement.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime juice adds freshness to your plate.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado is nutritious and flavorful.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make a colorful side that balances the richness of taquitos.
5. Guacamole Salad: A simple salad featuring guacamole served on a bed of romaine lettuce provides creaminess without being too heavy.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa create a fun snack before enjoying your taquitos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Vegan Taquitos to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring Tortilla Choices: Choosing the wrong type of tortilla can lead to soggy taquitos. Opt for corn or flour tortillas that are fresh and pliable for better results.

• Overfilling the Taquitos: Stuffing too much filling inside can result in breakage during cooking. Use a moderate amount of filling, allowing room for sealing.

• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your filling adequately can make the taquitos bland. Ensure you use enough spices and seasonings, like vegan taco seasoning, to enhance flavor.

• Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat your air fryer may lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat for optimal crispiness.

• Using Cold Fillings: Cold fillings can cause the tortillas to become soggy. Make sure your filling is warm before assembling your taquitos.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Vegan Taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Taquitos

• Place cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them into freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Taquitos

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but note they won’t be crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Vegan Taquitos.

How do I make Vegan Taquitos crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, ensure you air fry or bake them at high heat after preheating your appliance properly.

What fillings can I use in Vegan Taquitos?

You can use various fillings like lentils, roasted vegetables, or plant-based sausage alternatives tailored to your taste.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

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

Typically, they take about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer. Always check for crispiness!

Are there gluten-free options for Vegan Taquitos?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make them gluten-free-friendly.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Taquitos are not only delightful but also versatile! With various filling options and cooking methods available, they cater to any palate. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this fun twist on traditional tacos. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love it!