The sizzle of golden tortillas filled with savory lentils takes me straight to taco night bliss. If you’ve ever craved a healthier twist on a classic favorite, these crunchy vegan taquitos are your answer! Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, this recipe not only satisfies the hungriest appetites but also makes meal prep a breeze. You can whip these up in no time, whether by air-frying or baking them to crispy perfection. Plus, with their customizable filling options—from lentils to your favorite roasted veggies—everyone at the table will find something to love. Ready to bring some fun and nourishment back to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are Vegan Taquitos a Must-Try?

Crispy, golden perfection: There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of these taquitos, making them an instant hit with friends and family.
Healthy & hearty: The lentil filling is not only protein-packed but also loaded with essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free option for any meal.
Quick & easy: With just a few basic steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Customizable creations: Feel free to switch up the fillings! Try combinations like roasted cauliflower or even tempeh for a unique twist. You can also explore other options like these Breakfast Taquitos Busy to start your day right.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: These taquitos are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main course, catering to everyone’s taste buds while being vegan and gluten-free with corn tortillas.

Vegan Taquitos Ingredients

• The ingredients you’ll need for these delicious Vegan Taquitos are easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

For the Filling

Brown Lentils – Provides heartiness and protein; you can use green or black lentils as alternatives.
White Onion – Adds a sweet and aromatic base; substitute with yellow onion if preferred.
Garlic – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Jalapeño – Brings heat to the dish; omit for a milder flavor or use a milder pepper instead.
Rotel Fire Roasted Tomatoes – Adds moisture and tang; any diced tomatoes can suffice if unavailable.
Organic Vegetable Broth – Boosts flavor; low-sodium is ideal for less salt, but water can substitute if needed.
Vegan Taco Seasoning – Essential for authentic taco flavor; try homemade using chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.

For the Taquitos

Corn or Flour Tortillas – The base for the taquitos; opt for corn for a gluten-free option.
Lime Juice – Brightens flavors; fresh is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Chili Powder – For seasoning; optional but recommended for an extra kick.

For Serving

Jalapeños (for topping) – Adds spice; feel free to omit if you prefer none.
Salsa/Hot Sauce – A condiment of choice; grab your favorite varieties for dipping!
Vegan Sour Cream – Adds creaminess to the dish; if you prefer a nut-based alternative, try cashew cream.

Now that we’re stocked up with these ingredient essentials, let’s move on to creating these mouthwatering Vegan Taquitos that will make your family ask for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Vegan Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare Tortillas
Start by heating corn tortillas to keep them pliable—simply pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. If using flour tortillas, you can skip this step, as they tend to remain soft. Once warmed, place them on a clean surface and prepare for the tasty filling.

Step 2: Make Filling
In a non-stick pan, sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, add the brown lentils, 3 cups of vegetable broth, one can of fire-roasted tomatoes, and vegan taco seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 3: Stir in Remaining Ingredients
After simmering, stir in the second can of fire-roasted tomatoes and continue cooking on low until the mixture is hearty but not overly wet, adding more broth if necessary. Once the filling has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly to make rolling easier.

Step 4: Roll Taquitos
Take a warmed tortilla, place about 4 tablespoons of the lentil filling near one edge, and tightly roll it up, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging the rolled taquitos on a plate or baking sheet seam-side down to prevent unraveling.

Step 5: Season
To enhance the flavor of your crunchy vegan taquitos, lightly brush each one with fresh lime juice and sprinkle them with chili powder to add a touch of spice. This enticing seasoning will elevate your taquitos’ appeal, making them irresistible!

Step 6: Cook
For crispy taquitos, you can choose to air-fry or bake. If air-frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F, place the rolled taquitos in a single layer, and cook for 7-10 minutes until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F and arrange the taquitos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, baking for about 20 minutes until crispy and fragrant.

Step 7: Serve
Once cooked, remove your crunchy vegan taquitos from the air fryer or oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite salsa, hot sauce, and a dollop of vegan sour cream for a delightful finish. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful taquitos!

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Vegan Taquitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the lentil filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring maximum flavor while saving time on busy weeknights. Simply sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño, then mix in the lentils and spices as directed. After it cools, transfer the filling to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, warm the filling, roll it up in tortillas, and cook as instructed—air frying or baking until crispy and golden. This way, you’ll have delicious vegan taquitos with minimal effort, just as delightful as fresh!

What to Serve with Crunchy Vegan Taquitos

Transform your meal into a festive feast with delightful pairings that elevate these crunchy delights.

Creamy Guacamole: The smooth, rich texture of guacamole balances the crispy taquitos, adding freshness and flavor. It’s a classic companion that brings joy to each bite.
Zesty Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice with hints of lime and cilantro complements the savory filling beautifully, providing a satisfying grain to accompany your taquitos.
Spicy Black Bean Salad: A refreshing and protein-rich salad that adds a bit of zing. The flavors of black beans, corn, and avocado pair excellently with the spices in the taquitos.
Tropical Pineapple Salsa: The sweetness and acidity of pineapple salsa brings a bright contrast, enhancing every crunchy mouthful with a burst of tropical delight.
Crisp Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, a green salad adds a crunchy texture that nicely balances the warm, savory taquitos. Opt for mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for freshness!
Margaritas or Mocktails: Sip on refreshing margaritas or fruity mocktails to round out your meal. The chilled beverages add an extra layer of fun to your taco night.
Vegan Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, this is perfect for dipping. It complements the flavors while offering a rich texture that melts your heart.
Churros for Dessert: Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Crunchy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a delightful finish after your savory feast.

Storage Tips for Vegan Taquitos

Fridge: Store leftover vegan taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and freshness.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crunch.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked vegan taquitos out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.

Vegan Taquitos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these options to make this dish truly your own!

Beans: Swap brown lentils for black or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor. The creamy beans will add a hearty touch to the filling.
Roasted Veggies: Replace lentils with roasted cauliflower or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and depth. Roasting caramelizes their natural flavors, taking your taquitos to another level.
Mushroom Chorizo: Use mushroom chorizo for a smoky taste that mimics traditional chorizo without meat. The rich umami flavor will have everyone asking for seconds!
Tempeh: Crumble tempeh into the filling for a protein-packed alternative. It not only boosts nutritional value but also adds a satisfying chew.
Nut Filling: Try walnuts or pecans for a nutty twist; just pulse them in a food processor before adding to the mix. This is a great way to introduce new textures to the dish.
Different Tortillas: Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a more colorful or nutritious option. The added nutritional profile can easily fit into various dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the filling. For a milder version, consider bell peppers instead.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling before rolling for a burst of freshness. This adds a delightful brightness to each bite.

Don’t forget to pair your taquitos with a tangy salsa or creamy Vegan Sour Cream to enhance the flavors! Enjoy the possibilities and make these Vegan Taquitos your new go-to.

Expert Tips for Vegan Taquitos

Moisture Matters: Ensure corn tortillas are adequately moistened before filling to prevent cracking. A damp paper towel in the microwave can help!
Preheat for Perfection: Whether air-frying or baking, preheating your appliance ensures even cooking and achieves that perfect golden crispy exterior.
Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap lentils for roasted veggies or beans and try different spices to keep that vegan taquito adventure going.
Avoid Overfilling: Keep filling to about 4 tablespoons per tortilla. Overstuffed taquitos may burst during cooking, losing that beautiful presentation.
Cool Before Rolling: Let the filling cool slightly before rolling to make it easier to handle, preventing the tortillas from tearing.

Vegan Taquitos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe, firm tomatoes—look for ones free of dark spots. When selecting jalapeños, pick ones that are bright green and firm, which indicates freshness and heat. Fresh garlic should be plump with no signs of sprouting for maximum taste.

What’s the best way to store leftover vegan taquitos?
Store leftover vegan taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy later. For optimal reheating, the air fryer works wonders, restoring their crispy texture.

Can I freeze vegan taquitos for later use?
Yes! To freeze, lay the uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. After about 2 hours, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

What can I do if my taquitos are falling apart?
Oh no! If your taquitos are falling apart, it may be due to overfilling or using tortillas that aren’t pliable enough. Make sure to heat your corn tortillas to soften them before filling and follow the 4-tablespoon filling rule. If there are any cracks, try gently pressing them together before cooking.

Are these vegan taquitos suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, and you’ll have a delightful gluten-free meal that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check the labels on your tortillas to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, just warm the filling slightly before rolling the taquitos. This way, you can enjoy a quick and delicious meal without the last-minute hustle!