Sometimes, all it takes to brighten your day is the crunch of a perfectly baked taquito. When I discovered the joy of making these Vegan Taquitos, it felt like a revelation—delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly simple! Imagine gathering around the table with family or friends, the air filled with the enticing aroma of a homemade meal that’s not only crowd-pleasing but also incredibly wholesome.
What I love most about these taquitos is their versatility. You can pack them with anything from hearty lentil taco meat to savory mushroom chorizo or even roasted cauliflower. And whether you choose to bake or air-fry them, the result is always a crispy, golden outside that perfectly encapsulates a savory filling. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or an everyday snack, these taquitos are suited for everyone—kids and adults alike—and are sure to bring smiles all around. Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this quick and flavorful recipe!
Why Love These Vegan Taquitos?
Bold Flavor Choices: With variations like lentil taco meat and mushroom chorizo, you can customize these taquitos to your taste every time.
Healthier Cooking: Baked or air-fried, they deliver a guilt-free crunch that satisfies your cravings without compromising your health.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for a weeknight meal, these taquitos can be made in about 30 minutes, saving you time and effort.
Great for Everyone: Kids love them, and so do adults! They’re perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.
Make it a Meal: Pair with some Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete, nutritious spread that everyone will enjoy.
Vegan Taquitos Ingredients
For the Lentil Filling
• Brown Lentils – Main source of protein; use rinsed and picked-over lentils for best results.
• White Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with yellow onion if needed.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; use fresh minced or garlic powder as a substitute.
• Jalapeño – Provides heat and flavor; omit for a milder taste.
• Rotel Fire Roasted Tomatoes with Green Chilies – Adds moisture and spice; use regular diced tomatoes with chili powder as an alternative.
• Organic Vegetable Broth – Moistens lentils; water or homemade broth can be used as substitutes.
• Vegan Taco Seasoning – Brings seasoning depth; homemade taco seasoning is an option.
For the Taquitos
• Corn or Flour Tortillas – Structure for the taquitos; gluten-free dieters should use corn tortillas.
• Lime Juice – Brightens flavor; use lemon juice as a substitute.
• Chili Powder – For sprinkling on the taquitos; optional.
For Serving
• Salsa or Hot Sauce – Perfect for dipping; any favorite brand works.
• Vegan Sour Cream – Adds creaminess; use avocado or cashew cream as an alternative.
These Vegan Taquitos not only promise a burst of flavor but also bring a smile to your face—ideal for meals that bring everyone together!
How to Make Vegan Taquitos
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Prepare Tortillas: Heat your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave for about 30 seconds until they’re pliable. If using flour tortillas, no heat is necessary as they can be rolled directly.
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Make Lentil Taco Filling:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes without adding oil.
- Combine Ingredients: Add rinsed brown lentils, 3 cups of vegetable broth, one can of fire-roasted tomatoes, and your vegan taco seasoning. Stir well and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Stir & Adjust: After 30 minutes, stir the mixture, adding the remaining tomatoes, and adjust with additional broth until the filling reaches a thick and hearty texture. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
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Roll Taquitos: Place a generous spoonful of the lentil filling on one side of each tortilla. Roll them tightly, and lightly brush with fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder for extra flavor.
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Cooking Methods:
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the taquitos side-down and cook for 7-10 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the taquitos on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes or until crispy and inviting.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite salsa or vegan sour cream for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vegan Taquitos?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that complement the crunchy joy of homemade taquitos.
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Mexican Rice: A classic side dish that adds heartiness and pairs beautifully with the spices in the taquitos. The fluffiness of the rice balances the crunch, creating a satisfying contrast.
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Chopped Salad: Fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, corn, and avocado offer a refreshing crunch alongside the warm taquitos. The brightness of a lime vinaigrette can really bring the flavors together.
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Southwest Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy coleslaw adds a delightful crunch that enhances each bite of your taquitos. The coolness of the slaw complements the warm, spiced filling perfectly.
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Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole is a fantastic dip that provides a velvety complement to the taquitos. Its fresh ingredients help balance the savory lentil filling.
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Salsa Verde: This zesty, tangy sauce adds a burst of flavor that brightens up the meal. The freshness of the tomatillos gives each bite a delicious kick.
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Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of plant-based sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices, enhancing the overall taste experience. It’s perfect for dipping and drizzling!
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Margaritas or Iced Tea: Pair with a refreshing drink like a classic margarita or sweet iced tea for a festive touch. Both will enhance the flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Vegan Taquitos Variations
Explore exciting twists on your Vegan Taquitos that will keep your taste buds dancing!
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Mushroom Chorizo: Replace lentils with sautéed mushrooms seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin for a savory kick. It’s a deliciously earthy option that brings depth to each bite.
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Roasted Cauliflower: Swap lentils for roasted cauliflower florets tossed in taco seasoning for a hearty veggie alternative. The caramelized edges add a beautiful sweetness!
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Walnut Filling: Process walnuts with Mexican spices and fresh herbs for a meaty yet plant-based surprise. This crunchy filling adds texture and a nutty flavor you’re sure to love.
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Tempeh Delight: Crumble tempeh and cook it with garlic, onion, and spices for a protein-packed alternative. Its firm texture complements the crispy tortilla perfectly!
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Sweet Potato Bliss: Mash roasted sweet potatoes and mix with black beans and spices for a creamy and flavorful option. It brings a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully.
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Zesty Black Bean: Substitute lentils with seasoned black beans for an easy and wholesome filling option. A perfect protein boost that’s simply delightful.
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Heating Options: If you like it spicy, mix in some diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa for dipping. Top it off with avocado slices for a creamy finish!
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Herbed Tofu: Crumble tofu and sauté with garlic and fresh herbs for a bright and zesty filling alternative. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor!
Get creative with your taquito fillings and make each batch uniquely yours!
Storage Tips for Vegan Taquitos
Refrigerator: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing.
Freezer: Freeze individual taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or bake in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Serve with your favorite salsa for a delicious touch!
Room Temperature: Do not leave taquitos out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to prevent spoilage.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Taquitos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the lentil filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply follow the cooking instructions to make the filling, let it cool, and then refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy your taquitos, heat the filling as needed, and assemble the taquitos with your preferred tortillas—just warm them for a few seconds in the microwave to keep them pliable. Bake or air-fry them fresh right before serving for a delightfully crispy treat that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Vegan Taquitos
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Warm Tortillas First: Ensure your corn tortillas are warm before rolling to prevent cracking. This small step makes all the difference!
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Avoid Sogginess: Be cautious with the amount of moisture in the lentil filling; too much liquid will make your taquitos soggy.
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Preheat Cooking Device: Whether baking or air-frying, preheat your appliance for even cooking results and an optimal crispy texture.
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Keep Them Crunchy: If making multiple batches, keep cooked taquitos warm in the oven to maintain their crispiness while preparing more.
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Use Parchment Paper: When baking, line your sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup while making your vegan taquitos.
Vegan Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting fruits and vegetables, look for bright colors and firm textures. For the jalapeño, pick ones that are vibrant green without dark spots. Onions should be dry and firm, while tomatoes should be slightly soft but not mushy, indicating ripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover taquitos?
Store leftover vegan taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can cause sogginess. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze vegan taquitos?
Yes! You can freeze individual taquitos for up to 2 months. Start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need to thaw; just reheat right from frozen!
What if my lentil filling is too watery?
Good question! If your filling ends up too liquidy, cook it down over medium heat with the lid off until it thickens. You can also add a tablespoon or two of mashed beans or even some breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture and achieve that ideal filling consistency.
Are there any common allergens in the recipe?
Very! The ingredients in these vegan taquitos are generally free from many common allergens, but be mindful of the tortillas. Some brands may contain gluten, so those with gluten sensitivities should opt for certified gluten-free corn tortillas. Always read labels to ensure safety, especially for those with allergies.
Satisfy Your Cravings with Crispy Vegan Taquitos Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat your corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave for about 30 seconds until they’re pliable.
- In a pan over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes without adding oil.
- Add rinsed brown lentils, 3 cups of vegetable broth, one can of fire-roasted tomatoes, and your vegan taco seasoning. Stir well and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, stir the mixture, adding the remaining tomatoes, and adjust with additional broth until it reaches a thick and hearty texture.
- Place a generous spoonful of the lentil filling on one side of each tortilla. Roll them tightly, and lightly brush with fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder for extra flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the taquitos for 7-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the taquitos on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes or until crispy.