Finding meals that the whole family enjoys is always a struggle. before I decided to eat plant plant-based, tacos were the only meal the entire family would eat. I decided I should bring tacos back, but with a plant-based twist. Deciding to eat plant-based based definitely does not mean you can't eat things that you enjoyed before. It only means you have to get a bit creative and find new ways to create your old favorite foods into yummy plant-based alternatives.
This taco recipe was easy to make, with many of the ingredients coming from things that you may already have in your pantry. Along with the taco "meat", I added refried beans and fresh mango salsa. The additional sides you add to your tacos is completely up to your tastes and what you have on hand. Some additions could include lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan cheese, or tomato salsa. The combinations are endless!
Ingredients:
For the Taco "Meat":
- 2 packages of extra firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons harissa powder (or chile powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black ground pepper
For the Mango salsa:
- 1 ripe mango
- 1/2 can of yellow corn
- 1/2 of a bell pepper
- 1/8 of a red onion
- 1/2 tablespoon of lemon or lime juice
Instructions:
For the taco "meat"
Prepare your tofu by removing it from the package and pressing out some of the water with a clean cloth. Once your tofu is prepared, take a large pan and add your tomato paste, water, and spices and let it simmer of low heat until it heats up. Once the tomato mixture is warm add your tofu blocks and with a fork crumble the tofu into pieces that resemble ground beef. Let the tofu cook for about 20 minutes or until it is slightly browned and most of the water has been cooked out. While it cooks work on the salsa and heating the side ingredients.
For the Mango Salsa:
Carefully cut a ripe mango into cubes and set aside in a small bowl. Chop your bell pepper and red onion and add them to the bowl as well. Add in half a can of yellow corn and give the mixture a stir. Finally, add in the lemon of lime juice and stir one last time.
Assembly:
Take the tortillas and fill them with the sides of your choosings and the taco "meat". Add the fresh mango salsa on top and enjoy!