Lentil Taco Meat (Instant Pot Option)

Simple, healthy, and flavorful lentil taco meat is a satisfying meatless addition for tacos, burritos, bowls, and so much more. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Ready in no time! WFPB, oil-free and gluten-free.

We're really digging this lentil taco meat lately. Don't get me wrong, I still LOVE this Soy-Curl Taco Filling when I want something extra meaty, but it's also nice to switch things up. Lentils are an affordable, nutritious way to do that.

If you have an Instant Pot or other pressure cooker, you'll love how easy this recipe is. It's a dump-and-start recipe, for sure.

And preparing the lentils on the stovetop is pretty darn easy, too!

Ingredient Notes

Lentils - feel free to use brown, green or black lentils for this recipe. Avoid red and yellow lentils since they will be too mushy.

Onion - any variety you have on hand will do.

Garlic - 2 large cloves gives the lentils great flavor without being too garlicky. Garlic powder also works if that's what you have on hand. About ¾ teaspoon is perfect.

Jalapeño - with the seeds removed jalapeños don't add much spicy heat, but feel free to omit the pepper if you're not a fan. Or if you LOVE jalapeño, use two!

Chili powder - this refers to the blend commonly found in grocery stores, not a specific chili pepper.

Walnuts, optional (not pictured) - for slightly richer and more filling lentil taco meat I like to add ground walnuts, but if you avoid nuts or need a very low fat dish, feel free to omit. For a nut-free addition sunflower seeds are a great option.

How To Make It

There are two easy ways to cook this lentil taco meat.

In an Instant Pot:

1. Combine all ingredients in the Instant Pot and stir. Lock on the lid, set to sealing, and cook at high pressure for 8 to 9 minutes.
2. If including ground walnuts, pulse them in a food processor while the lentils are cooking.
3. Quick release the pressure, and carefully remove the lid. Strain away any excess liquid left in the pot (there shouldn't be much). Stir in the ground walnuts. Let stand for a few minutes, and serve.

On the stovetop:

1. Sauté the onion and jalapeño for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and spices, and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
2. Add the lentils, water, and salt, and bring to boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.
4. While the lentils cook, process walnuts into a finely ground texture (if using). Once the lentils are done, strain away excess liquid. Stir in the ground walnuts, and let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked lentils?

Definitely! Follow the stovetop instructions, and skip the water. Add the lentils when adding the spices, and cook until the lentils are heated through.

If the lentils are already salted be sure to reduce/omit the salt.

Ways to Use Lentil Taco Meat

I'm happy with a simple bowl of lentil taco meat and rice plus toppings. But of course it's great for so many other dishes, too!

Tacos, obviously.

Add lentil taco meat to pizzas, flatbreads, and salads.

Spread a layer of lentils inside Oil-Free Quesadillas.

Pile them on nachos, and use them in these Easy Baked Taquitos.

I hope you enjoy this healthy lentil taco meat.
If you give it a try be sure to comment below. Hearing from you makes my day, and your feedback helps others!

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