Lentil Turkey Bacon Tacos

As a native San Diegan, tacos are in the blood. Adjacent to the Mexico border, San Diego is blessed with authentic, mind-blowing Mexican fare. As such, tacos easily find their way on our weekly menu...Taco Tuesday is a real thing. As we added more plants and legumes to our diet, we decided tacos didn't need to get the boot. They just needed a new spin and flip of the meat to plant ratio. Enter in these delicious lentil turkey bacon tacos that are absolute perfection. These tacos are smoky and slightly sweet and won't leave you wishing for carnitas or carne asada. The tacos come together in a snap and are high in protein and fiber. 

Ingredients Needed for Lentil Taco Filling

Lentils - Duh but really these are important. I love the easy, precooked black lentils from Trader Joe's for this recipe. Conversely cook up a batch of your favorite variety of lentils and use. 

Onion - I prefer yellow onion, but if red or white is on hand, that works.

Olive oil - Like all of our Mediterranean (or Mexiterranean in this case) recipes, olive oil is our choice for cooking oil and healthy fat.

Carrot - This adds additional veggie diversity, a bit of light crunch and subtle sweetness. 

Garlic and Spices - In terms of spice level, these tacos are on the mild scale. If spicier is preferred, consider upping the cayenne pepper.

Chicken Bone Broth - We like the extra boost of protein that bone broth provides, but this could easily be swapped for chicken broth or vegetable broth. 

Apple Cider Vinegar - Helps add a hint of acidity.

Honey - Works so well with the spices, lentils and carrot. If looking to keep sugar very low, simply omit. 

Tomato paste - This helps thicken the taco meat and imparts more flavor. 

Turkey Bacon - If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon. We opt for the uncured turkey bacon from Trader Joe's. It is low in fat and has a nice smoky flavor without any icky additives.

*Lettuce and any other veggies such as diced onions, salsa and/or cilantro for topping

Cilantro Lime Crema - Use our recipe HERE. We are partial to adding this crema to drizzle on as a lean, higher protein alternative to sour cream. Totally optional, but adds a nice touch to the flavor profile. Plus, you're getting more protein and probiotics.

Tortillas - Use your favorite tortilla. Opt for corn, flour, or a whole grain variation such as the Ezekiel brand of tortilla wraps.

Serving Suggestions

Just like traditional ground beef taco meat, this lentil taco filling can be used as a topping for taco salad, tostadas or enchiladas.

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