Healthy Vegan Taquitos Recipe – Traditional Mexican Dish

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Finding the perfect balance between indulgence and health can feel like a culinary tightrope walk. Enter the game-changer: Vegan Taquitos Recipe.

As someone who’s navigated the tricky waters of satisfying cravings while sticking to plant-based choices, I’ve stumbled upon this recipe that promises flavor without compromise.

The quest for a delicious and vegan-friendly snack used to be a daunting challenge. With vibrant spices, hearty beans, and the right baking technique, these taquitos emerged as my weeknight savior.

They’re a testament to the versatility of vegan cooking and a beacon for anyone looking to infuse their diet with more plant-based goodness without losing the joy of eating.

What Are Vegan Taquitos?

Vegan taquitos are a plant-based version of the traditional Mexican dish, crafted to fit a vegan lifestyle without sacrificing taste or texture.

They consist of corn tortillas tightly rolled around a filling of various vegan ingredients such as beans, vegetables, and spices, then baked or fried to achieve a crispy exterior.

This dish exemplifies how versatile vegan cooking can be, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite. It is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a delicious, cruelty-free alternative in their culinary repertoire.

Quick Fact-Vegan taquitos, often filled with nutrient-rich ingredients like beans and vegetables, offer a high-fiber, protein-packed snack or meal option that supports a plant-based diet.

Recipe Directions

Prepare The Filling

• In a pot of boiling water with salt, cook the chopped potatoes until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes with a potato masher, adding a splash of plant-based milk for creaminess. Set aside.
• Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes. Add grated carrot, minced garlic, and all spices; sauté for another minute.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and add peas. If using frozen peas, ensure they’re thawed; if using canned, drain and rinse. Cover and cook until the carrot softens. Turn off the heat.
• Incorporate the mashed potatoes and vegan cheese into the veggie mixture, using a fork or potato masher to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assemble And Bake

• Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
• Lightly brush the taquitos with vegetable oil and sprinkle taco seasoning for extra flavor.
• Bake for 17-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for a few minutes (optional).

Serve And Store

• Serve your vegan taquitos with your choice of salsa, vegan sour cream, vegan queso, or guacamole.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. They can be frozen in zip-lock bags for longer storage for up to 2 months.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Filling: Besides the basic potato and pea filling, consider using lentils, black beans, mushrooms, spinach, or vegan meat substitutes for different flavors and textures. Mixing in some cooked quinoa or rice can also add a hearty element to the filling.
• Spices: Experiment with different spice blends to change the flavor profile. Try chipotle powder for a smoky taste, cumin, and coriander for a classic touch, or a dash of cinnamon and cocoa for a mole-inspired version.

Add-Ons

• Cheese: Incorporate various types of vegan cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or spicy pepper jack, to add creaminess and depth.
• Sauces: Enhance the moisture and flavor by adding sauces to the filling. For a tangy twist, consider vegan enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, or even a splash of lime juice.

Toppings

• Fresh: Top baked taquitos with fresh diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocados, or chopped cilantro for a refreshing contrast to the crispy exterior.
• Sauces: Serve with various dips and sauces, such as guacamole, vegan sour cream, salsa verde, or pico de gallo, allowing everyone to customize their taquitos.
• Drizzles: A vegan queso, cashew cream, or hot sauce can add flavor and richness.
• Pickled: Adding pickled onions, jalapeños, or radishes can introduce a tangy and spicy element that balances the richness of the filling and toppings.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Cauliflower: A great substitute for chicken or beef, especially in curries or buffalo wings.
• Mushrooms: Portobello, shiitake, or button mushrooms can replace meat due to their umami and texture, which makes them perfect for burgers or stews.
• Jackfruit: Its meaty texture is ideal for vegan pulled pork or taco fillings.
• Lentils: A protein-rich alternative for ground meat in sauces, lasagnas, or taco fillings.
• Chickpeas: Can substitute for chicken or tuna in salads and sandwiches.
• Eggplant: A great base for vegan bacon or to mimic the texture of fish in dishes.
• Zucchini: Excellent for noodles, zoodles, or as a filler in lasagnas.
• Sweet Potatoes Can replace meat in burgers, tacos, or salads.
• Beets: Their earthy flavor and texture substitute fish in vegan sushi or burgers.
• Butternut Squash is a versatile substitute for cheese in sauces and as a filling in ravioli and lasagna.

Quick Tip-For a richer flavor in vegan dishes, roast vegetables before adding them to recipes. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes

• Cilantro Lime Rice A zesty and refreshing side that balances the richness of the taquitos.
• Black Bean Salad Offers a protein-packed addition with vibrant flavors.
• Guacamole A creamy and rich dip that adds a smooth texture.
• Salsa Fresca (Pico de Gallo) Adds a fresh and tangy element to the meal.
• Corn on the Cob Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is a sweet and crunchy side dish that pairs well with taquito spices.
• Vegan Refried Beans A hearty, comforting side complements the crispy taquitos.
• Quinoa Salad A light and nutritious option that adds a delightful texture.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites) A creamy, spicy salad that echoes the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Jicama Slaw Provides a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the taquitos.
• Vegan Queso Dip A warm, spicy dip perfect for drizzling or dipping your taquitos.

How To Serve?

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the taquitos neatly on a large platter. Drizzle them with vegan sour cream and guacamole, then sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes for color and freshness.
• Individual Plates: Serve two or three taquitos on individual plates with a side of salsa, a dollop of vegan sour cream, and a lime wedge for squeezing.
• Dipping Stations: Create a dipping station with bowls of guacamole, vegan queso, salsa, and sour cream. Guests can choose their favorite dips to customize their experience.
• Garnish: Add a gourmet touch with a garnish of avocado slices, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.
• Side Dishes: Accompany the taquitos with side dishes such as cilantro lime rice, a refreshing salad, or a bean dish, arranged neatly around the taquitos on a serving platter for easy access.
• Napkins and Picks: Since taquitos can be finger foods, they provide plenty of napkins and toothpicks for guests, ensuring a tidy and convenient eating experience.

Quick Tip-To keep vegan taquitos crispy when reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store cooled taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: Freeze taquitos on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy single servings.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and roll the taquitos in advance. Refrigerate overnight or freeze, then bake or air fry when ready to serve for a quick and convenient meal.

Fact-Did you know? The concept of taquitos dates back to early 20th century Mexico, evolving into vegan versions that maintain traditional textures and flavors using plant-based ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Taquitos Gluten-Free?

You can make gluten-free vegan taquitos using certified gluten-free corn tortillas. It’s important to check all ingredients labels, including spices and vegan cheese, to ensure they do not contain gluten or are not processed in a facility that handles gluten-containing products. This simple swap makes the dish suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

How Can I Make The Taquitos Oil-Free?

To make oil-free vegan taquitos, skip brushing the tortillas with oil before baking. Instead, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

The taquitos may not be as crispy as their oil-brushed counterparts, but they will still be delicious. For sautéing, use a small amount of vegetable broth or water instead of oil to cook your vegetables.

What Are The Best Fillings For Vegan Taquitos?

The best fillings for vegan taquitos offer a good mix of textures and flavors. Common choices include mashed beans (black or pinto), lentils, shredded vegan cheese, sautéed vegetables (like onions, peppers, and mushrooms), and seasoned tofu or tempeh.

Spices and herbs are key in adding depth and authenticity to the filling. Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand or prefer taste-wise.

How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Taquitos?

To store leftover vegan taquitos, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 2 months.

Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until they are heated and crispy again. This method helps maintain their texture better than microwaving.

Can I Prepare Vegan Taquitos In Advance?

Yes, vegan taquitos are an excellent make-ahead meal option. Prepare and cook your filling, then let it cool before rolling the taquitos.

You can store them assembled but uncooked in the refrigerator overnight or freeze them longer. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the cooking time. This makes them a convenient choice for quick meals or entertaining.