A protein-rich plant-based alternative that perfectly mimics the texture of ground beef
KEY INFO
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Servings: 4 (yields 2-3 cups)
– Difficulty: Easy
– Diet: Vegan, Gluten-free (with tamari)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
– Food processor (or sharp knife)
– Large skillet
– Measuring spoons
– Spatula
INGREDIENTS
Base:
– 2 cups raw walnuts (200g)
– 8 oz mushrooms, preferably shiitake (225g)
– 1 medium onion, diced (150g)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (30ml)
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
– ½ tablespoon onion powder
– ½ tablespoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
METHOD
1. Process Walnuts
Pulse walnuts in food processor until finely chopped (like breadcrumbs). Don’t over-process!
2. Prepare Vegetables
Process mushrooms separately until finely chopped. Dice onion and mince garlic.
3. Cook Base
Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, cook 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
4. Combine
Add mushrooms, cook 3-5 minutes until moisture releases. Add walnuts and all seasonings.
5. Final Cook
Cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture is lightly browned and fragrant.
CRUCIAL TIPS
– Don’t overprocess the walnuts – you want texture, not paste
– Let mushrooms release their moisture before adding walnuts
– Taste and adjust seasonings before serving
– For extra “meaty” texture, add 1 tablespoon tomato paste
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
– Refrigerate up to 5 days
– Freeze up to 3 months
– Reheat in skillet with splash of water
Variations:
– Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for umami boost
– Use taco seasoning packet instead of individual spices
– Add cooked lentils for extra protein
– Spice it up with chipotle in adobo
Serve in tacos, burritos, salads, or any dish calling for ground meat. Top with traditional Mexican garnishes like avocado, lime, cilantro, and salsa.
This “meat” alternative delivers the satisfaction of traditional tacos while packing serious nutritional benefits – omega-3s from walnuts and fiber from mushrooms. Even meat-lovers will be impressed by its rich, satisfying texture.
