Vegan Lentil Walnut Meat Substitute

Ingredients

• 1 cup Brown Lentils (rinsed)
• 1 cup Walnuts (raw, lightly toasted)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (finely diced)
• 3 pieces Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (low‑sodium; tamari for gluten‑free)
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (adds smoky depth)
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups Water (for cooking lentils)

Instructions

1. Rinse and Cook Lentils

   Place 1 cup of brown lentils in a saucepan, add 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10‑12 minutes until tender but still holding shape. Drain any excess water.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: medium heat

2. Toast Walnuts

   While lentils are cooking, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of raw walnuts and toast, stirring frequently, for 4‑5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate to cool.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: medium heat

3. Pulse Walnut‑Lentil Mixture

   In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils and toasted walnuts. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse ground meat—still a bit chunky for texture. Scrape down sides as needed.

   Time: PT2M

4. Sauté Aromatics

   In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3‑4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds.

   Time: PT4M

   Temperature: medium heat

5. Combine and Season

   Add the walnut‑lentil mixture to the skillet with aromatics. Stir in soy sauce (or tamari), smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5‑6 minutes until the flavors meld and any excess moisture evaporates.

   Time: PT6M

   Temperature: medium heat

6. Serve or Store

   Remove from heat. Use immediately as a filling for tacos, pasta sauce, or burgers, or let cool and store in an airtight container.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

250

Protein

12g

Carbohydrates

30g

Fat

10g

Fiber

8g