A couple years ago I brought this Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) Taco recipe to a party. There were some of the greatest meat fanatics in that room that night, but this recipe fooled them all. Not only did the Tacos sin Carne fool the meat eaters, they were asking for the recipe!

Want to try it for yourself? Perhaps you have some friends to fool. You will be amazed at how quickly and simply this meal comes together. And your friends will be amazed that the tacos are sin carne.

the “meat”
1 cup dried textured vegetable protein
1/2 yellow onion
1 cup diced or crushed tomatoes, optional

Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP), a protein-rich meat substitute made from soy flour, can be found at health stores or in larger supermarkets, usually in the bulk section. When ready to use TVP needs to be re-hydrated at a 1:1 ratio. To do this place 1 part TVP in bowl and cover with 1 part boiling water. Place lid on bowl and let sit for five minutes.

While the TVP is re-hydrating, heat up 1 TBSP oil in a pan. Once hot add onion and saute, stirring often, until lightly brown. Once onions are ready add chili , garlic, and onion powder, cayenne, oregano, paprika, and cumin. Stir to coat onion.

Add tomatoes. I just use whatever is in my pantry, usually diced tomatoes, and add to taste. The tomatoes add juiciness and flavor but could be omitted all together, in which case add a little extra water when adding tvp to onion mixture.

Add tvp and stir until combined. Let sit simmer for 5 minutes for flavors to soak in.

Prepare your toppings. Below and clockwise I have lime chive sour “cream” (I prefer Follow Your Heart), spinach, avocado, tomatoes, olives, and salsa.

Assemble tacos and enjoy!