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I know what you are thinking.. cauliflower and walnuts in a taco? While it may sound completely out of the ordinary, this recipe make a perfect plant-based taco meat substitute. If you are new to a plant-based diet, you are soon going to learn that in order to truly enjoy it, you're going to have to step outside of the box. Trying new things that may seem odd but will quickly become your favorite is a major part in becoming plant-based. Those who have been plant-based for a while know all about trying new and different things.
This recipe is great for sneaking in vegetables. I personally don't particularly like mushrooms, but try to include them in any recipe in order to get all of the nutrients and benefits of them. However, in this recipe you do not even notice them. This being because they are ground up within the cauliflower and walnuts.
The Problem with Traditional Tacos
Traditional tacos made from ground beef are high in saturated fat. Red meat also has links to causing different types of cancer, as well as heart disease. In turn, this plant-based taco meat contains cauliflower which is high in fiber while the walnuts add protein and a good fat. Mushrooms are loaded with nutrients while being another source of protein and fiber. Just by changing up a household recipe, you are cutting out ingredients that could be harmful to you and your family's health. At the same time, you are adding nutrient dense foods that help to prevent and fight off harmful diseases.
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I add this taco meat to our homemade blue corn tortillas, though if your in the mood for burritos, wrap them up in these oil-free whole wheat tortillas. I just put them in the oven for a few minutes using this taco holder that shapes and crisps them. Perfect for homemade taco shells. I also love to add fresh homemade guacamole, homemade hot sauce, and some fresh veggies. Feel free to add any of your favorite taco toppings!
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Cauliflower Taco Meat
Plant-based, vegan taco meat that is packed with nutrients. Made with cauliflower, walnuts, potatoes, and some hidden vegetables. Great for taco Tuesday!
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cauliflower (or 1/2 a large head)
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1 potato optional
- 8 button mushrooms
- 1/2 cup cilantro
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbs chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp coriander
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 cayenne pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375° F
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Pulse cauliflower in food processor until fine. Pour into a medium sized bowl.
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Pulse walnuts; add to cauliflower.
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Peel and chop potato into small pieces; add to cauliflower mixture.
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Add all seasoning.
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Pour mixture onto parchment paper lined baking tray and bake for 35 minutes; stir halfway.
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While the mixture is cooking, chop and saute bell pepper and onion.
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Add chopped mushrooms and cilantro; saute.
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Once the cauliflower is done, add the bell pepper and onion mixture.
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Serve in homemade tortillas or taco shells.
Rosalie says
Just discovered your site and anxious to try your recipes. This cauliflower taco meat sounds amazing. Trader Joe’s sells riced cauliflower and also frozen riced cauliflower. Would either of those work instead or buying a whole cauliflower and chopping it in the food processor?
Alexis says
Hi Rosalie!
Yes, riced cauliflower works great! I use frozen riced cauliflower all the time. Hope you enjoy the recipes! 🙂
– Alexis
Grace says
This looks so delicious!! I really want to try making this!
Alexis says
Hi Grace! They are so delicious and very healthy, it is a win win recipe! Let me know what you think if you try it!
-Alexis
Abigail Rose says
I tried this recipe and it was so easy to make! It was also so delicious! Me and my family extremely enjoyed this!