Switch up Taco Tuesday with oil-free, crunchy vegan taquitos. This recipe is not just a fantastic choice for family dinners; it’s also perfect for parties, game nights, or any casual gathering. With a variety of filling options and cooking methods available, these taquitos are sure to please everyone at the table. Their delightful crunch and flavorful fillings make them a standout dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile Filling Options: Customize your vegan taquitos with various fillings like mushroom chorizo or roasted cauliflower to suit everyone’s taste.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up these delicious taquitos in no time.
Kid-Friendly: The fun shape and crispy texture make these taquitos an exciting meal option for kids, encouraging them to eat more veggies.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils and vegetables, these taquitos are nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
Two Cooking Methods: Choose between air frying or baking for a healthier version that still delivers on taste and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather all essential tools before starting. Having the right equipment will help ensure your vegan taquitos turn out perfectly crispy and delicious.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer or oven
Mixing bowls
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: Provides a quick way to achieve that crispy texture without using oil.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining all your filling ingredients thoroughly before rolling them into the tortillas.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer, ensuring precise cuts for even cooking.

Ingredients

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
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
Mushroom Chorizo Filling
Potato Taco Filling
Roasted Cauliflower Filling
Walnut Taco Filling
Tempeh Taco Filling

How to Make Vegan Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Filling

In a large pot, combine brown lentils, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, and fire-roasted tomatoes.
Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
Stir in the vegan taco seasoning and lime juice. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos

Once the filling is ready, take a tortilla and place about two tablespoons of filling in the center.
Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled.

Step 3: Cook Your Taquitos

Air Fryer Method:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the taquitos with cooking spray if desired.
Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Oven Method:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place assembled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for about 15–20 minutes until they are crisped up.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm with salsa, vegan sour cream, hot sauce, or any toppings you prefer! Enjoy your homemade vegan taquitos!

How to Serve Vegan Taquitos

Vegan taquitos are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying dinner with family, these delicious rolls can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.

With Dips

Salsa: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a vibrant flavor.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly, offering richness and texture.
Vegan Sour Cream: This cool option balances the spice of the taquitos wonderfully.

On a Bed of Greens

Mixed Greens: Serve your taquitos on a bed of mixed greens for added crunch and nutrition.
Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw complements the crispy taquitos well.

With Toppings

Chopped Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Vegan Taquitos

Creating the perfect vegan taquitos is all about technique and choice of ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure they come out crispy and flavorful every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste significantly.
Choose the Right Tortillas: Opt for high-quality corn or flour tortillas that won’t break easily when rolled.
Don’t Overstuff: Keep fillings to a moderate amount to prevent bursting during cooking.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is hot before adding taquitos for optimal crispiness.
Experiment with Fillings: Try different combinations like mushroom chorizo or roasted cauliflower for exciting variations.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Taquitos

Pairing side dishes with your vegan taquitos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the taquitos nicely.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and make a filling side dish.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch to the table.
Guacamole Salad: This salad combines fresh veggies with creamy guacamole for a delightful mix.
Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer before the main dish.
Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables add smokiness that pairs well with the savory taquitos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan taquitos can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid while preparing your delicious vegan taquitos.

Not seasoning enough: Many people underestimate the power of seasoning. Ensure you use enough spices and flavors to make your fillings pop.
Choosing the wrong tortillas: Using the wrong type of tortilla can lead to soggy or broken taquitos. Opt for sturdy corn or flour tortillas that hold together well.
Overfilling the taquitos: It can be tempting to pack in lots of filling, but overfilling can cause them to burst during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount for best results.
Skipping the cooling step: If you don’t let the filling cool before rolling, it can make the tortillas too soft and harder to handle. Always cool your filling slightly.
Not preheating your air fryer: Failing to preheat your air fryer can result in uneven cooking. Preheat it for optimal crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover vegan taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge.
They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vegan Taquitos

Wrap individual taquitos in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Vegan Taquitos

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place taquitos on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat them on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes. This method will soften them but may not keep them crisp.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook taquitos for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Vegan Taquitos made of?

Vegan taquitos consist of tortillas filled with various flavorful fillings like lentils, vegetables, or even mushroom chorizo. They are seasoned with spices for extra taste.

How do I make Vegan Taquitos crispy?

To achieve crispiness, use an air fryer or bake them at a high temperature. Make sure not to overcrowd the cooking space, allowing even heat distribution.

Can I prepare Vegan Taquitos ahead of time?

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

How long should I cook taquitos in an air fryer?

Cook vegan taquitos in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use different fillings in my Vegan Taquitos?

Absolutely! You can customize your vegan taquitos with any fillings you like, such as roasted vegetables, beans, or potatoes. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

These vegan taquitos are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, they promise satisfaction with every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize your own version and enjoy this delightful dish!

Vegan Taquitos

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Author: Florence
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Serves approximately 4 (8 taquitos) 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking/Frying
Cuisine: Mexican

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy these easy Vegan Taquitos filled with flavorful ingredients! Perfect for any occasion—try making them today!

Instructions

In a large pot, combine brown lentils, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Stir in vegan taco seasoning and lime juice until well mixed.
Place about two tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes or bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crisp.