Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Baked Arancini With Peppery Tomato Sauce and Berry Vanilla Sensation. Enjoy!
VEGAN BROWN RICE JAMBALAYA WITH TOMATO SAUCE
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, the Vegetarian Food expert for About.com. She writes, “Jamabalaya is one of those dishes that is greater than the sum of its parts. The seasonings and the lengthy cooking time really combine to make something special; it's not just rice and tomato sauce! This vegetarian and vegan jambalaya recipe (with whole grain brown rice instead of regular white rice) makes a huge pot, about 14 servings, so plan on inviting some friends over for dinner or having lots of leftovers. Jambalaya is a great choice if you're cooking in bulk, because it's so easy. Once the rice is cooking, you just leave it alone for nearly an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to prepare a gorgeous homemade dessert.” She recommends a Banana Rum Cheesecake with Maple Rum Sauce, which was posted here yesterday.
The jambalaya recipe makes 14 servings, and can be viewe online by clicking here.
Ingredients
3 tbsp vegan margarine
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup water
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups brown rice, uncooked
2 bay leaves
2 tsp. thyme
2 tsp. cayenne
2 tsp. Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
In a large soup or stock pot, melt the margarine over medium-low heat, then add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 15 minutes, until soft.
Add all of the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow to simmer for about 45-50 minutes.After 45-50 minutes, check the pot. You may need to add a little more liquid and cook for 5-10 more minutes, until rice is well cooked. Taste and adjust seasonings, to taste.
Makes about 14 servings, so plan on having leftovers if you're not feeding a crowd! Fortunately, the leftovers keep well.
Recipe variations: For a spicier jambalaya, slice up one fresh green jalapeno when cooking and add it along with the other vegetables. For extra flavor, if you happen to have some on hand, you can toss in a handful of fresh herbs - either cilantro or parsley - at the very last minute.
SWEET POTATO & BLACK BEAN ENCHILADAS
This comes from the December 2011 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 59. The recipes starts off, “Right from the start, the originality and flavor profile of this recipe made it a standout for VT taste testers. 'My wife and I eat this dish a lot in the fall and winter months. We make it when we're having guests (vegetarian and not) because we know everyone will enjoy it,' explains James McNulty. 'It can be made the night before and it travels well, so it's great for a potluck or a holiday party.'” Serves 8 (makes 16 enchiladas)
To view this online, click here.
Sauce
1 15-oz. can tomato sauce
1 3/4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tsp. ancho chile powder
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. chipotle chile powder
Filling
1 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, diced (1 cup)
1 1/2 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (3 cups)
1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes, drained
1 16-oz. jar prepared medium salsa
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
1 chipotle chile in adobo sauce, drained and minced
1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 12-oz. round queso fresco, divided
Enchiladas
extra virgin olive oil, for brushing baking dish
16 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed
2 limes, cut into wedges
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream, for garnish
Cilantro sprigs, for garnish, optional
To make Sauce: Bring all ingredients to a simmer in saucepan over medium heat. Whisk to combine, then remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
To make Filling: Heat oil in separate saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes, or until soft. Add sweet potatoes, tomatoes, salsa, garlic, chipotle chile, and 1/2 cup water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 30 to 40 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are soft. Mash mixture with potato masher until combined. Add black beans, and cook 5 minutes. Stir in half of queso fresco, and remove from heat.
To assemble Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350ºF. Brush 13- x 9-inch baking dish with oil. Spread 1/2 cup Sauce in bottom of dish. Fill tortillas with Filling. Roll, and pack close together seam-side down in baking dish. Top with remaining Sauce and queso fresco. Bake 15 minutes.
Adjust oven to broil. Broil Enchiladas 5 minutes, or until cheese is browned and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lime wedges, avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro sprigs, if using.
nutritional information Per Serving (2 enchiladas): Calories: 435; Protein: 13 g; Total Fat: 15 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 65 g; Cholesterol: 20 mg; Sodium: 963 mg; Fiber: 11 g; Sugar: 11 g; Gluten-Free
BAKED ARANCINI WITH PEPPERY TOMATO SAUCE
This is from Michelle Stark of the Tampa Bay Times. Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
For the sauce:
1 red bell pepper
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Handful of fresh basil, chopped
For the arancini:
1 to 2 cups panko bread crumbs
Salt, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
2 to 3 cups cooked and chilled risotto
1 egg
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Make the sauce: Cut the top off the red bell pepper, then halve it lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and ribs and cut into quarters. Place on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure the pepper pieces are coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place in oven on the top rack and broil until pepper is very brown and charred. Keep an eye on it. When pepper pieces are mostly charred, remove from oven. Carefully remove any very charred skin and chop the rest of the pepper very finely. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add garlic and a swirl of olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes until garlic is lightly browned, then add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, season with salt and pepper and stir. Lower to a simmer and add red pepper flakes and basil. Taste it and adjust seasonings if desired. Simmer for 15 minutes while you prepare arancini.
Make the arancini: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread bread crumbs out on the parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes, until crumbs are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, place cooked risotto in a large bowl, then add egg, yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Start adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing in between each addition. About 4 tablespoons in, try to form a ball about the size of a golf ball with the risotto. If mixture is too sticky or not holding together, add the rest of the flour. If ball holds together, you’re good to go.
Prepare another baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and coating with cooking spray. Gently roll risotto mixture into balls; you’ll likely get between 20 to 25. Place on balls on prepared baking sheet.
Carefully roll balls, one at a time, in bread crumbs on other baking sheet until each ball is coated entirely with crumbs.
Place arancini back on risotto baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper and bake for about 25 minutes until brown. If you want them even browner, broil for about 5 minutes, watching them to make sure they don’t burn.
Serve hot with sauce on the side and more Parmesan cheese and parsley to garnish.
LEMON ICEBOX PIE III
This is from Heather Simpson on AllRecipes. The recipe begins, "A family favorite when a no-bake, fast pie is needed. (And family members too small to use the oven can make dessert!) Very pretty when garnished with whipped cream and mint leaves.”
This recipe makes 8 servings and can be found online here.
Ingredients
1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 lemons, juiced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Directions
In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon rind. Mix until smooth. Pour mixture into crust. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and mint leaves if desired.
BERRY VANILLA SENSATION
This recipe, as well as the next one (Tutti-Frutti Smoothie)are from “20 Super Healthy Smoothie Recipes” on the Runner’s World website. They’re originally from The Editors of Prevention.
This one begins, “Vanilla yogurt adds a touch of sweetness to this tangy fruit smoothie recipe.”
Servings: 2
1/2 cup frozen unsweetened raspberries
1/2 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries
3/4 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
1 cup (8 oz) fat-free vanilla yogurt
Combine the raspberries, strawberries, and pineapple juice. Add the yogurt. Blend until smooth.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 192; Protein: 7 g; Carbs: 41 g; Fiber: 2.5 g; Sugar: 35 g; Total fat: 0.5 g; Saturated fat: 0.1 g; Sodium: 86.5 mg
TUTTI-FRUTTI SMOOTHIE
This recipe begins, “A splash of orange juice infuses summer citrus into this healthy and refreshing snack.”
Servings: 2
1/2 cup loose-pack mixed frozen berries or strawberries
1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple in juice
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup sliced ripe banana
1/2 cup orange juice
Combine the berries, pineapple (with juice), yogurt, banana, and orange juice in a food processor fitted with the metal blade, in a blender, or in a large measuring cup with an immersion blender. Process for about 2 minutes, or until smooth.
Nutrition Information: Calories (per serving): 140; Protein: 3.5 g; Carbs: 29 g; Fiber: 2.5 g; Sugar: 16 g; Total fat: 2.5 g; Saturated fat: 1.5 g; Sodium: 30 mg
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Taco Tuesday
It's Taco Tuesday. Yay!
It used to be that tacos consisted of a hard (crunchy) taco shell, ground meat (usually hamburger), lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, at least in the collective consciousness in the United States. Fortunately, the ideas for tacos have grown radically over the years, including vegetarian fare.
That said, here are six taco recipes to help you through the day, including Portobello Bulgogi Korean Tacos and White Bean and Potato Tacos. Enjoy!
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER AND BLACK BEAN TACOS
This comes from Ali in her cool blog, Gimme Some Oven. Check out her blog!
This yummy recipe begins, “These Roasted Cauliflower and Black Bean Tacos are topped with a zesty tahini-cumin-lime crema, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan, and muy delicioso.”
Total Time: 50 minutes; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes Yield: About 4 - 6; Vegan
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Taco Ingredients:
1 batch Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower (see below)
1 batch Black Beans (see below)
1 batch Cumin Lime Crema (see below)
corn tortillas*
toppings: diced avocado, chopped fresh cilantro, fresh lime wedges, pepitas, and/or thinly-sliced radishes
Tumeric Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients:
1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds)
4 medium garlic cloves, peeled and minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon each: ground cumin, kosher salt, paprika
1/2 teaspoon each: crushed red pepper flakes, freshly-cracked black pepper, ground turmeric
Refried Black Bean Ingredients:
1 small white onion
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon each: chili powder, Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
Cumin Lime Cream Ingredients:
1 small garlic clove, peeled and minced
1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
3 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions:
To Make the Tacos:
Prepare the cauliflower, refried black beans and crema as directed below.
To serve, place a layer of refried black beans in a tortilla, top with roasted cauliflower, a drizzle of the crema, and your desired toppings.
To Make the Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower:
Heat oven to 450°F.
In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper and ground turmeric until evenly combined.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then place the cauliflower in a single layer on the sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until it is tender and browned, stirring once halfway through.
Serve immediately.
To Make the Refried Black Beans:
Peel and halve the onion, then slice into half-moon shapes. Drain the beans, reserving 1/2 cup of the can liquid.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the beans, reserved can liquid, kosher salt, chili powder and black pepper. Turn the heat to medium low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring often and smashing the beans toward the end of the cook time, until most of the liquid has cooked out and the texture is mashed and thick. Scrape the bottom and sides of the pan as necessary. Taste and season with additional salt as desired.
To Make the Cumin Lime Crema:
In a small bowl, stir together the garlic, lime juice, tahini, olive oil, hot sauce, cumin and salt until evenly combined. Add 1-2 tablespoons water if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency.
*If you’d like to char the tortillas, turn on a gas burner to medium heat and place the tortilla directly on the grate. After about 15 seconds, once the edges are lightly charred, use tongs to flip the tortilla. Then heat on the opposite side until lightly charred. Repeat for all tortillas, keeping a close eye on them while cooking so that they do not catch fire.
WHITE BEAN AND POTATO TACOS (GLUTEN FREE AND VEGAN)
A while back, I stumbled across Oh My Veggies. They have all sorts of yummy veggie recipes, including a bunch of taco links.
This taco recipe, which was among the taco links on Oh My Veggies, is from Beard & Bonnet. Beard & Bonnet’s Meg van der Kruik is “the writer, mother, photographer, designer, cook and creative spirit behind Beard & Bonnet.”
This can be viewed online at http://beardandbonnet.com/white-bean-and-potato-tacos-gluten-free-and-vegan/.
Serves 4; Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white beans, I used Navy beans, or 1 can of cannelini beans, washed and drained
4-5 small potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed, and cut into tiny cubes (or 1 large russet potato)
1/2 cup cilantro, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lime
Olive oil for frying
salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
To assemble
6-8 white corn tortillas, blistered on both sides in a cast iron skillet
pickled jalapenos & radishes
cherry tomatoes, halved; I used Sungold cherry tomatoes from my CSA
lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Pour about 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potatoes and a large pinch of salt, toss to coat and cover with a tight fitting lid. The potatoes will take about 5-8 minutes to cook through. Be sure to periodically lift the lid, scrape the pan, and toss the potatoes to ensure that all sides are crisp and golden.
While the potatoes are cooking toss the precooked, warmed, white beans with the chopped cilantro, lime zest, and juice. Mix well to combine and set aside.
When the potatoes are finished cooking set up an assembly line at your table with the tortillas, potatoes, white beans, and toppings. Allow your family to each build there own to suit.
LOADED CRISPY TOFU TACOS
This is from The Woks of Life, and can be viewed online at http://thewoksoflife.com/2014/07/loaded-crispy-tofu-tacos/.
Prep time: 30 mins; Cook time: 15 mins; Total time: 45 mins; Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
Ingredients
You'll need:
1 package firm tofu
1 tablespoon Sriracha
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup fine cornmeal
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup oil
3 scallions
1 bunch cilantro
1/4 cup yogurt
warm corn tortillas
Other toppings:
shredded cheese
chopped tomato
chopped onion
sweet corn
avocado
lime wedges
Instructions
Cut the tofu into 3/4 inch cubes. In a wide, shallow bowl, combine the Sriracha and honey, and gently toss the tofu in the mixture. In another wide, shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, chili powder, cumin, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss the tofu in this dry mixture until well-coated.
In a cast iron or non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat. Add the tofu and allow the pieces to crisp up on all sides. While that's happening, whizz up the scallions, cilantro, and yogurt in a food processor or blender. Build your tacos with tortillas, your sauce, and whatever toppings you like.
PORTOBELLO BULGOGI KOREAN TACOS
This is from Rachael Hartley in her blog Avocado A Day Nutrition. (Nice blog, Rachael! I just signed up for it!) Rachael wrote, "Beef bulgogi Korean tacos are one of my favorites. Try this vegan twist using meaty portobello mushrooms, which soak up all the delicious marinade." Serves 6.
You can view this yummy recipe online here.
Ingredients
Mushrooms:
6 medium-large portobello mushroom caps, cleaned and sliced 1/2 inch thick
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin (see note, below)
2 tablespoons dark sesame oil
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons raw sugar or coconut sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon gochugaru (see second note)
Slaw:
1 bag of shredded cabbage
1 large carrot, shredded on the large grates of a cheese grater
2 scallions, thinly sliced
8 corn tortillas
First Note: Mirin is a Japanese cooking wine and is made from rice. It's supposed to be sweeter than sake. Since I don't keep alcohol around, I use water in place of miring.
Second note: Gochugaru is Korean chile flakes. If you can get it locally, and plan to use it in several dishes, great. Since I probably wouldn't use it elsewhere - unless I fell madly in love with it - I might consider something a little cheaper and more generic.
Instructions
Two to four hours before cooking, whisk together all the marinade ingredients for the mushrooms. Add portobellos and toss to combine. Refrigerate and marinade 2-4 hours.
When ready to cook, heat the grill to medium-high. Place the mushrooms evenly on the grill or toss into a grill pan if you have one. Reserve the marinade. Cook about 10 minutes total, flipping halfway.
While the mushrooms cook, pour the reserved marinade into a small pot. Set to medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Boil about 10 minutes total until reduced to a thick syrup. Set aside.
Warm the tortillas. Spoon slaw on the bottom of each tortillas. Top with mushrooms and reserved sauce.
SEITAN TACOS
This is from FoodFanatic, and begins, “Seitan tacos made with citrus and herb are a fantastic vegetarian idea. These tacos are a fantastic addition to Taco Week!” Makes 4 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces seitan strips, 1 package
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, deseeded and minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons sour cream
3 tablespoons canola oil
1 large tomato, diced
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or corn taco shells
Directions
Drain the seitan strips and toss them with the garlic, jalapenos, cumin, chili powder, and onions in a small bowl. Set aside.
Combine the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, parsley, cilantro and honey in a blender and mix until combined. Whisk in the sour cream. Set aside.
In a medium skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the seitan mixture and cook until the seitan has browned and the onions are soft.
Assemble the tacos with the seitan mixture, tomatoes, spinach and cheese.
Spoon the citrus dressing over the tacos. Alternatively, because it is very liquid, you can also coat the cooked seitan mixture with the desired amount of dressing before taco assembly.
Notes
I used a thyme flavored honey which added to the herby flavor of the dressing.
Make sure the jalapeno is actually spicy. This dish is better with a little kick!
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS
This recipe is from Cookie + Kate, and starts off, “Colorful butternut squash tacos with crisp slaw, black beans and guacamole! These tacos are a simple weeknight meal and a great option for vegan and gluten-free eaters. Recipe yields about 8 tacos (4 servings).”
Actually, just before the actual recipe, Kate wrote, “Just when I thought I couldn’t come up with another recipe, my wonderful hair stylist said, “Tacos.” So here we are, two grocery stores later, with tacos that are as tasty as they are colorful. You need some color to brighten up drab winter days, you know?” Kate (Cookie is her crumb-catching dog) goes on about the recipe (you can read more here), along with posting photos of these wonderful tacos. (Yes, I definitely love these and Kate’s site.)
Prep Time: 15 mins; Cook Time: 35 mins; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
Check out the recipe at https://cookieandkate.com/2016/roasted-butternut-squash-tacos-recipe/.
Ingredients
Roasted butternut squash
1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds, I used two 12-ounce bags of pre-sliced butternut from Trader Joe’s), peeled and sliced into 3/4-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Cabbage and black bean slaw
2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced and roughly chopped into 2-inch long pieces
2 cans black beans (15 ounces each), rinsed and drained, or 3 cups cooked black beans
1/3 cup chopped green onions, both green and white parts
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt, more to taste
Simple guacamole (double if you love guac!)
1 large avocado, diced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
Pinch of salt, more to taste
Everything else
8 corn tortillas (certified gluten free if necessary)
Optional garnishes: additional chopped cilantro, hot sauce, toasted pepitas, crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan tacos)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line one large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
To roast the squash: On your prepared baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut in enough olive oil to lightly coat all sides, about 2 tablespoons. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon chili pepper and a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the butternut in a single layer. Bake until the butternut is tender throughout and caramelized on the edges, about 30 to 35 minutes, tossing halfway.
Meanwhile, to assemble the slaw: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, black beans, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil and salt. Toss to combine, then taste and add additional lime juice and/or salt if necessary. Set aside to marinate.
To prepare the guacamole: In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, lime juice, coriander and salt. Mash with a pastry cutter, potato masher or fork until the mixture is blended and no longer chunky. Taste and add additional salt if necessary.
To warm the tortillas: In a small skillet over medium heat, warm each tortilla on both sides before transferring to a plate and covering with a lint-free towel to keep warm. Repeat with each tortilla, stacking each warmed tortilla on the last.
To assemble the tacos, spoon an ample amount of slaw down the center of your taco, top with roasted butternut and spread a spoonful of guacamole down the side. Top with garnishes of your choice and serve immediately.
Notes
Change it up: Sweet potatoes would be an awesome substitute for the butternut.
Storage Suggestions: Store individual components separately for best results. Store leftover guacamole in a small bowl with plastic wrap pressed against the top to prevent oxidation.
It used to be that tacos consisted of a hard (crunchy) taco shell, ground meat (usually hamburger), lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, at least in the collective consciousness in the United States. Fortunately, the ideas for tacos have grown radically over the years, including vegetarian fare.
That said, here are six taco recipes to help you through the day, including Portobello Bulgogi Korean Tacos and White Bean and Potato Tacos. Enjoy!
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER AND BLACK BEAN TACOS
This comes from Ali in her cool blog, Gimme Some Oven. Check out her blog!
This yummy recipe begins, “These Roasted Cauliflower and Black Bean Tacos are topped with a zesty tahini-cumin-lime crema, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan, and muy delicioso.”
Total Time: 50 minutes; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes Yield: About 4 - 6; Vegan
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Taco Ingredients:
1 batch Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower (see below)
1 batch Black Beans (see below)
1 batch Cumin Lime Crema (see below)
corn tortillas*
toppings: diced avocado, chopped fresh cilantro, fresh lime wedges, pepitas, and/or thinly-sliced radishes
Tumeric Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients:
1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds)
4 medium garlic cloves, peeled and minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon each: ground cumin, kosher salt, paprika
1/2 teaspoon each: crushed red pepper flakes, freshly-cracked black pepper, ground turmeric
Refried Black Bean Ingredients:
1 small white onion
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon each: chili powder, Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
Cumin Lime Cream Ingredients:
1 small garlic clove, peeled and minced
1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
3 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions:
To Make the Tacos:
Prepare the cauliflower, refried black beans and crema as directed below.
To serve, place a layer of refried black beans in a tortilla, top with roasted cauliflower, a drizzle of the crema, and your desired toppings.
To Make the Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower:
Heat oven to 450°F.
In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper and ground turmeric until evenly combined.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then place the cauliflower in a single layer on the sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until it is tender and browned, stirring once halfway through.
Serve immediately.
To Make the Refried Black Beans:
Peel and halve the onion, then slice into half-moon shapes. Drain the beans, reserving 1/2 cup of the can liquid.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the beans, reserved can liquid, kosher salt, chili powder and black pepper. Turn the heat to medium low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring often and smashing the beans toward the end of the cook time, until most of the liquid has cooked out and the texture is mashed and thick. Scrape the bottom and sides of the pan as necessary. Taste and season with additional salt as desired.
To Make the Cumin Lime Crema:
In a small bowl, stir together the garlic, lime juice, tahini, olive oil, hot sauce, cumin and salt until evenly combined. Add 1-2 tablespoons water if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency.
*If you’d like to char the tortillas, turn on a gas burner to medium heat and place the tortilla directly on the grate. After about 15 seconds, once the edges are lightly charred, use tongs to flip the tortilla. Then heat on the opposite side until lightly charred. Repeat for all tortillas, keeping a close eye on them while cooking so that they do not catch fire.
WHITE BEAN AND POTATO TACOS (GLUTEN FREE AND VEGAN)
A while back, I stumbled across Oh My Veggies. They have all sorts of yummy veggie recipes, including a bunch of taco links.
This taco recipe, which was among the taco links on Oh My Veggies, is from Beard & Bonnet. Beard & Bonnet’s Meg van der Kruik is “the writer, mother, photographer, designer, cook and creative spirit behind Beard & Bonnet.”
This can be viewed online at http://beardandbonnet.com/white-bean-and-potato-tacos-gluten-free-and-vegan/.
Serves 4; Prep Time: 20 min
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white beans, I used Navy beans, or 1 can of cannelini beans, washed and drained
4-5 small potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed, and cut into tiny cubes (or 1 large russet potato)
1/2 cup cilantro, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lime
Olive oil for frying
salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
To assemble
6-8 white corn tortillas, blistered on both sides in a cast iron skillet
pickled jalapenos & radishes
cherry tomatoes, halved; I used Sungold cherry tomatoes from my CSA
lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Pour about 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the potatoes and a large pinch of salt, toss to coat and cover with a tight fitting lid. The potatoes will take about 5-8 minutes to cook through. Be sure to periodically lift the lid, scrape the pan, and toss the potatoes to ensure that all sides are crisp and golden.
While the potatoes are cooking toss the precooked, warmed, white beans with the chopped cilantro, lime zest, and juice. Mix well to combine and set aside.
When the potatoes are finished cooking set up an assembly line at your table with the tortillas, potatoes, white beans, and toppings. Allow your family to each build there own to suit.
LOADED CRISPY TOFU TACOS
This is from The Woks of Life, and can be viewed online at http://thewoksoflife.com/2014/07/loaded-crispy-tofu-tacos/.
Prep time: 30 mins; Cook time: 15 mins; Total time: 45 mins; Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
Ingredients
You'll need:
1 package firm tofu
1 tablespoon Sriracha
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup fine cornmeal
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup oil
3 scallions
1 bunch cilantro
1/4 cup yogurt
warm corn tortillas
Other toppings:
shredded cheese
chopped tomato
chopped onion
sweet corn
avocado
lime wedges
Instructions
Cut the tofu into 3/4 inch cubes. In a wide, shallow bowl, combine the Sriracha and honey, and gently toss the tofu in the mixture. In another wide, shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, chili powder, cumin, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss the tofu in this dry mixture until well-coated.
In a cast iron or non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat. Add the tofu and allow the pieces to crisp up on all sides. While that's happening, whizz up the scallions, cilantro, and yogurt in a food processor or blender. Build your tacos with tortillas, your sauce, and whatever toppings you like.
PORTOBELLO BULGOGI KOREAN TACOS
This is from Rachael Hartley in her blog Avocado A Day Nutrition. (Nice blog, Rachael! I just signed up for it!) Rachael wrote, "Beef bulgogi Korean tacos are one of my favorites. Try this vegan twist using meaty portobello mushrooms, which soak up all the delicious marinade." Serves 6.
You can view this yummy recipe online here.
Ingredients
Mushrooms:
6 medium-large portobello mushroom caps, cleaned and sliced 1/2 inch thick
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin (see note, below)
2 tablespoons dark sesame oil
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons raw sugar or coconut sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon gochugaru (see second note)
Slaw:
1 bag of shredded cabbage
1 large carrot, shredded on the large grates of a cheese grater
2 scallions, thinly sliced
8 corn tortillas
First Note: Mirin is a Japanese cooking wine and is made from rice. It's supposed to be sweeter than sake. Since I don't keep alcohol around, I use water in place of miring.
Second note: Gochugaru is Korean chile flakes. If you can get it locally, and plan to use it in several dishes, great. Since I probably wouldn't use it elsewhere - unless I fell madly in love with it - I might consider something a little cheaper and more generic.
Instructions
Two to four hours before cooking, whisk together all the marinade ingredients for the mushrooms. Add portobellos and toss to combine. Refrigerate and marinade 2-4 hours.
When ready to cook, heat the grill to medium-high. Place the mushrooms evenly on the grill or toss into a grill pan if you have one. Reserve the marinade. Cook about 10 minutes total, flipping halfway.
While the mushrooms cook, pour the reserved marinade into a small pot. Set to medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Boil about 10 minutes total until reduced to a thick syrup. Set aside.
Warm the tortillas. Spoon slaw on the bottom of each tortillas. Top with mushrooms and reserved sauce.
SEITAN TACOS
This is from FoodFanatic, and begins, “Seitan tacos made with citrus and herb are a fantastic vegetarian idea. These tacos are a fantastic addition to Taco Week!” Makes 4 servings; Serving Size: 2 tacos; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces seitan strips, 1 package
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, deseeded and minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons sour cream
3 tablespoons canola oil
1 large tomato, diced
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or corn taco shells
Directions
Drain the seitan strips and toss them with the garlic, jalapenos, cumin, chili powder, and onions in a small bowl. Set aside.
Combine the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, parsley, cilantro and honey in a blender and mix until combined. Whisk in the sour cream. Set aside.
In a medium skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the seitan mixture and cook until the seitan has browned and the onions are soft.
Assemble the tacos with the seitan mixture, tomatoes, spinach and cheese.
Spoon the citrus dressing over the tacos. Alternatively, because it is very liquid, you can also coat the cooked seitan mixture with the desired amount of dressing before taco assembly.
Notes
I used a thyme flavored honey which added to the herby flavor of the dressing.
Make sure the jalapeno is actually spicy. This dish is better with a little kick!
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS
This recipe is from Cookie + Kate, and starts off, “Colorful butternut squash tacos with crisp slaw, black beans and guacamole! These tacos are a simple weeknight meal and a great option for vegan and gluten-free eaters. Recipe yields about 8 tacos (4 servings).”
Actually, just before the actual recipe, Kate wrote, “Just when I thought I couldn’t come up with another recipe, my wonderful hair stylist said, “Tacos.” So here we are, two grocery stores later, with tacos that are as tasty as they are colorful. You need some color to brighten up drab winter days, you know?” Kate (Cookie is her crumb-catching dog) goes on about the recipe (you can read more here), along with posting photos of these wonderful tacos. (Yes, I definitely love these and Kate’s site.)
Prep Time: 15 mins; Cook Time: 35 mins; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
Check out the recipe at https://cookieandkate.com/2016/roasted-butternut-squash-tacos-recipe/.
Ingredients
Roasted butternut squash
1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds, I used two 12-ounce bags of pre-sliced butternut from Trader Joe’s), peeled and sliced into 3/4-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Cabbage and black bean slaw
2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced and roughly chopped into 2-inch long pieces
2 cans black beans (15 ounces each), rinsed and drained, or 3 cups cooked black beans
1/3 cup chopped green onions, both green and white parts
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt, more to taste
Simple guacamole (double if you love guac!)
1 large avocado, diced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
Pinch of salt, more to taste
Everything else
8 corn tortillas (certified gluten free if necessary)
Optional garnishes: additional chopped cilantro, hot sauce, toasted pepitas, crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan tacos)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line one large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
To roast the squash: On your prepared baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut in enough olive oil to lightly coat all sides, about 2 tablespoons. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon chili pepper and a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the butternut in a single layer. Bake until the butternut is tender throughout and caramelized on the edges, about 30 to 35 minutes, tossing halfway.
Meanwhile, to assemble the slaw: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, black beans, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil and salt. Toss to combine, then taste and add additional lime juice and/or salt if necessary. Set aside to marinate.
To prepare the guacamole: In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, lime juice, coriander and salt. Mash with a pastry cutter, potato masher or fork until the mixture is blended and no longer chunky. Taste and add additional salt if necessary.
To warm the tortillas: In a small skillet over medium heat, warm each tortilla on both sides before transferring to a plate and covering with a lint-free towel to keep warm. Repeat with each tortilla, stacking each warmed tortilla on the last.
To assemble the tacos, spoon an ample amount of slaw down the center of your taco, top with roasted butternut and spread a spoonful of guacamole down the side. Top with garnishes of your choice and serve immediately.
Notes
Change it up: Sweet potatoes would be an awesome substitute for the butternut.
Storage Suggestions: Store individual components separately for best results. Store leftover guacamole in a small bowl with plastic wrap pressed against the top to prevent oxidation.
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