This easy TVP Taco Meat is just five ingredients and ready in 20 minutes. A protein-packed option - perfect for taco night in a pinch!

Tacos are one of those foods that everyone likes. Taco Tuesday? Happening on the regular. Having dinner with friends? Bring tacos. Everyone want something different? Make a taco bar.
These TVP tacos are the perfect high protein plant-based addition to whatever your taco situation is.
Jump to:

What is TVP?
TVP stands for Textured Vegetable Protein.
It's a vegan meat substitute. Unlike many meat products on the market, it is only one ingredient: soy.
TVP can come in different shapes and sizes, but most often it is sold in small pieces that resemble ground beef.
Soy is high in protein, and TVP is a concentrated form of soy protein. So TVP is especially high in protein, making it a great protein-rich vegan meat substitute.
As with all foods that are semi-processed, it's best to enjoy TVP in moderation and opt for whole foods in their least processed form as often as you can. That said, TVP makes a delicious taco meat!

Why I love this TVP Taco Meat
- Dietary needs - this taco meat is plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free, oil-free, and refined sugar-free.
- Easy weeknight dinner - this taco meat is ready in just 20 minutes and only has a few simple ingredients. It's never been easier to whip up a vegan taco!
- Packed with protein- TVP is a great source of vegan protein
- Great taco texture - these tacos are NOT mushy! The TVP has a solid texture, which is intended to be crumbly and crisp

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Red Onion: you can also use a white or yellow onion
- Textured Vegetable Protein: I used Bob's Red Mill TVP, which isn't available in stores near me, but is easily found online!
- Water: TVP needs water or some other liquid to rehydrate it - you could also use vegetable broth
- Taco Seasoning: I used my 5-minute taco seasoning recipe
- Kosher Salt: my taco seasoning has salt, but I find that since TVP has a relatively neutral flavor, a bit of extra salt helps enhance the overall taco flavor
- Liquid Smoke: this is optional, but I love adding a smoky flavor to many savory recipes because it creates a more savory, umami flavor profile
- To Serve: tortillas, black beans, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, jalapeño, guacamole, etc.

How to make TVP Taco Meat
Step 1. Sauté the onion in a medium skillet for 3-5 minutes until starting to soften.

Step 2. Add the TVP, water, taco seasoning, salt, and liquid smoke. Stir and cook 10 minutes, until the TVP has been hydrated and is thoroughly warm.

Step 3. Serve with your favorite taco fixings. Enjoy!

FAQ & Expert Tips
This is a pretty generic taco base, so you can really make these tacos your own. Add black beans, vegan cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, avocado - whatever you love!
Store this taco meat in the refrigerator in an air-tight container. It will last for 5-7 days.

Recipe Prayer
Thank you God for this nutritious taco recipe. Thank you for healthy foods that are also delicious and enjoyable. Help this meal fuel our bodies. Amen.
More Vegan Taco Recipes
Tried this recipe?
Please leave a review in the comments section below and post on Instagram tagging me @elizabeths_table. You can also stay in touch with me on social media by following me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok or by subscribing to my newsletter.
📖 Recipe

Easy TVP Taco Meat
Ingredients
- 1 Medium Red Onion small diced
- 138 Grams TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) 1 ½ cup
- 1 ½ Cups Water
- ¼ Cup Taco Seasoning
- 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Liquid Smoke optional
- To Serve: tortillas, black beans, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, jalapeño, guacamole, etc.
Instructions
- Sauté the onion in a medium skillet for 3-5 minutes until starting to soften.
- Add the TVP, water, taco seasoning, salt, and liquid smoke. Stir and cook 10 minutes, until the TVP has been hydrated and is thoroughly warm.
- Serve with your favorite taco fixings. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an estimate.










Comments
No Comments