Easy Inexpensive Lentil Tacos
Transform your taco night with these Easy Inexpensive Lentil Tacos, a budget-friendly and protein-packed twist on a classic favorite. Made with pantry staples like dry brown or green lentils, aromatic spices, and rich tomato paste, this recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors without breaking the bank. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of total cooking time, these tacos come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The hearty lentil filling pairs beautifully with soft tortillas and customizable toppings like shredded cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh salsa. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these vegetarian tacos are a delicious and nutritious solution the whole family will love!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry brown or green lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 0.5 cup water
- 8 pieces small tortillas
- 1 to taste taco toppings (lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, etc.)
Instructions
Rinse the lentils under cold running water to remove any debris.
In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
While the lentils cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir well to combine them with the onion and spices.
Stir in the tomato paste and water. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and is heated through.
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Assemble the tacos by spooning the lentil mixture into each tortilla and adding your favorite taco toppings.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Easy Inexpensive Lentil Tacos!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1730 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.2 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.0 g | 45% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 3783 mg | 164% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 279.2 g | 102% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 42.1 g | 150% | |
| Total Sugars | 21.9 g | ||
| Protein | 81.5 g | 163% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 630 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 26.1 mg | 145% | |
| Potassium | 3174 mg | 68% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
