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Quinoa Taco Filling Recipe

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4.1 from 13 reviews

This Quinoa Taco Filling is a flavorful and nutritious plant-based dish that combines fluffy quinoa with smoky tomato paste, cumin, and tangy salsa. Enhanced with nutritional yeast for a cheesy depth, it is quick to prepare on the stovetop before being baked to achieve a slightly crispy texture. Perfect as a taco filling or a protein-packed side, this recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Quinoa Mixture

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
  • Salt to taste (if needed)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; set aside this workspace for baking the finished quinoa.
  2. Sauté Quinoa and Tomato Paste: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then add the rinsed uncooked quinoa and tomato paste. Sauté while stirring frequently for 2 minutes to coat the quinoa and build flavor.
  3. Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and continue sautéing for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
  4. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the cumin. Stir everything together well to combine.
  5. Cook Quinoa Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Mix in Salsa and Nutritional Yeast: Remove the lid and stir in the salsa and nutritional yeast, blending the mixture thoroughly to combine flavors and add a cheesy note from the yeast.
  7. Bake the Mixture: Transfer the quinoa mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the edges start to turn slightly crispy, adding texture to the filling.
  8. Season and Serve: Remove from the oven and season with salt to taste, if needed. Use this versatile filling for tacos, bowls, or as a side dish.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa prior to cooking helps remove its natural bitterness.
  • Nutritional yeast is optional but adds a savory, cheesy flavor and boosts nutritional value.
  • The baking step is key for adding texture; do not skip for the best results.
  • This quinoa filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder when sautéing.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 32 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/quinoa-taco-filling-recipe/