Hello there, foodies! This is Rana Khattab, and I’m thrilled to be sharing my latest experiment in plant-based cooking with you all. As a Jordanian who grew up with a deep appreciation for rich, flavorful dishes, I’ve always been fascinated by how different cultures around the world approach cooking. So when I discovered this recipe for crispy Beyond Beef tacos, I was immediately intrigued. It offered a fresh take on a classic Mexican dish, using a plant-based protein that was healthier for the planet and for me.
Rana is a freelance graphic designer who loves experimenting with plant-based recipes and sharing her creations on her food blog. Originally from Jordan, she now resides in Toronto, Canada with her husband and their two cats.
Rana Khattab currently resides in Canada and grew up in Jordan.
Beyond Beef is a product made by the Beyond Meat company, which was founded in California in 2009. Beyond Meat sets itself apart from other alternative meat companies by focusing on using plant-based proteins that mimic the taste and texture of real meat as closely as possible. The Beyond Beef crumbles in this recipe are made from pea protein, rice flour, and mung bean protein, and they really take on the spices and flavors they’re cooked with. As someone who prefers to eat a mostly plant-based diet for health and environmental reasons, I love finding new ways to incorporate alternative proteins into my cooking.
In today’s world, there’s a growing awareness of the impact that our food choices have on the planet. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to conserving water resources, there are many good reasons to start incorporating more plant-based dishes into our diets. That’s where recipes like these crispy Beyond Beef tacos come in – they prove that you don’t have to sacrifice taste or convenience to make a difference. I think that this recipe is especially relevant now, as we’re starting to reopen after a long, difficult year. Many of us are looking for ways to celebrate and come together with loved ones, and what better way than through a communal, delicious meal? So, let’s get cooking!
What you need
These Crispy Beyond Beef Tacos are a plant-based dream come true! Made with delicious Beyond Beef crumbles, fresh veggies, and a creamy avocado sauce, these tacos are the perfect combination of texture and flavor. I was blown away by how crispy and savory the beef crumbles turned out, and the zesty avocado sauce added the perfect amount of creaminess and tang. The recipe is easy to follow and involves browning the Beyond Beef crumbles with cumin and chili powder, preparing the vegetables, making the creamy avocado sauce, and warming the tortillas. Then, all that’s left is to assemble the tacos and dive in! I loved customizing my tacos with extra veggies and hot sauce, but they’re delicious as-is too. Whether you’re plant-based or not, these tacos are sure to satisfy your Taco Tuesday cravings!
Ingredients:
- Beyond Beef Crumbles – This Beyond Meat product is a plant-based alternative to ground beef that is high in protein and low in saturated fat. In this recipe, it adds a meaty texture and flavor that will satisfy even the most carnivorous taco lover. You could swap it with crumbled tofu or any other plant-based meat substitute.
- Corn Tortillas – Corn tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are the perfect vessel for holding all of the delicious taco fillings. They’re naturally gluten-free, but make sure to check the label if you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.
- Olive Oil – Olive oil is used to cook the Beyond Beef crumbles and adds a subtle fruity flavor to the tacos. You could use avocado oil or vegetable oil instead.
- Cumin – Cumin is a spice commonly used in Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine. It adds a warm, earthy flavor to the meat and vegetables. You could substitute it with chili powder or smoked paprika.
- Chili Powder – Chili powder is a popular spice blend that usually includes cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. It adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to the tacos. You could use cayenne pepper or smoked paprika instead.
- Salt – Salt is used to season the Beyond Beef crumbles and vegetables. You could use a salt substitute if you need to watch your sodium intake.
- Bell Pepper – Bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C and add a sweet, crunchy texture to the tacos. You could use any color of bell pepper or substitute it with another crunchy vegetable like jicama or cucumber.
- Onion – Onion is a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine and adds a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the tacos. You could use red onion or shallots instead.
- Garlic – Garlic adds a pungent, slightly spicy flavor to the Beyond Beef crumbles. You could use garlic powder instead.
- Avocado – Avocado is a heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fat and adds a creamy, delicious flavor to the tacos. You could substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt if you prefer.
- Lime Juice – Lime juice adds a bright, zesty flavor to the avocado sauce. You could use lemon juice instead.
- Cilantro – Cilantro is a herb commonly used in Mexican, Asian, and Indian cuisine. It adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to the tacos. You could use parsley instead if you don’t like the taste of cilantro.
Utensils:
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Small Bowl
- Fork or Potato Masher – You can use either one to mash the avocado for the sauce.
Beyond Beef Crumbles
As a vegetarian, I’m always looking for new and exciting plant-based protein sources, and Beyond Beef crumbles definitely fit the bill. Made from pea protein, these crumbles have a meaty texture and are just as versatile as ground beef. Plus, they’re lower in saturated fat and high in protein, making them a healthier choice. In this recipe, they add a savory, umami flavor to the tacos that is sure to satisfy. I love that I can enjoy the taste and texture of beef without harming animals or the planet.
Avocado
Who doesn’t love avocado? This creamy fruit is a staple in my diet, and for good reason. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamins C, K, and B6. In this recipe, avocado takes center stage in the form of a zesty sauce that perfectly complements the savory Beyond Beef crumbles and crunchy vegetables. Plus, it’s a great alternative to sour cream or mayonnaise, which are high in saturated fat and cholesterol. The only downside? Avocado can be hard to find or expensive in some parts of the world, but it’s worth splurging on for the taste and health benefits.
What to serve it with?
If you’re looking to make it a full meal, I like serving these crispy Beyond Beef tacos with a simple side of Mexican rice and beans. The rice and beans add a nice texture contrast to the crispy, savory tacos and are a great source of protein and fiber. As someone who grew up eating a lot of rice and beans, this side option is near and dear to my heart. It’s also easy to make – just cook 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt until the rice is fluffy and tender. For the beans, I like using canned black beans, which I heat up with some garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. This side dish adds a complete meal to the table, without overpowering the flavors of the tacos.
Summary
All in all, these crispy Beyond Beef tacos are a true plant-based delight, and I’m excited to have shared this recipe with you today. Now, I want to hear from you! Have you ever tried using plant-based meat alternatives in your cooking before? What other plant-based dishes do you enjoy? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag me in your photos if you make this recipe. Happy cooking!
Here’s the recipe:
Crispy Beyond Beef Tacos: Plant-Based Deliciousness in Every Bite
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- wooden spoon
- cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- small bowl
- Fork or Potato Masher
Ingredients
- 1 package (12 oz) Beyond Beef Crumbles
- 8 Corn Tortillas
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 Bell Pepper
- 1/2 Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 Avocado
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
- 1/4 cup Cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Beyond Beef Crumbles - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Beyond Beef crumbles, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the crumbles are browned and crispy. -
- Prepare the Vegetables - While the Beyond Beef crumbles are cooking, cut the bell pepper in half and remove the seeds and stem. Slice the pepper into thin strips. Peel and thinly slice the onion. Peel and mince the garlic. Set aside in a small bowl. -
- Make the Avocado Sauce - Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Add the lime juice and cilantro and mash with a fork or potato masher until creamy. - If you have a food processor or blender, you can use it to make the sauce instead. Just blend the avocado, lime juice, and cilantro until smooth and creamy.
- Warm the Tortillas - Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for 20-30 seconds on each side, until heated through and slightly crispy. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. - If you have a gas stove, you can also warm the tortillas directly over the flame. Use tongs to hold the tortilla and cook for a few seconds on each side, until lightly charred and warm.
- Assemble the Tacos - To assemble the tacos, place a spoonful of the Beyond Beef crumbles in the center of each tortilla. Top with the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle the avocado sauce over the top. Serve immediately. - Feel free to customize the tacos to your liking! You could add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or your favorite hot sauce.
