LENTIL TACO MEAT BOWL

2 cups, 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Lentil Taco Meat

• 1 cup brown lentils

• 2 cups water

• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tbsp ghee

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Fresh lemon or lime juice as a topping 

Optional Grain Pairings (pick one or have the taco meat on its own)

• Green Herby Quinoa (tridoshic)

• Cumin Rice

• Cumin Cauliflower Rice (best if kapha)

• Easy Yeast-Free Wraps

• Fennel bulb pesto (optional sauce)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium pot over medium heat add the brown lentils, water, and turmeric powder. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Allow the lentils to cook until soft (about 20 minutes), adding salt to taste at the end of cooking.

2. While that is cooking, prepare your optional grain pairing if using this taco meat as a bowl. All of them are good but I prefer the green herby quinoa - it makes for a complete easy flavorful dish where you won't need a sauce :).

3.  In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat the ghee and add the fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and thyme. Heat until aromatic.

4.  Add the chopped walnuts and heat until browned and they start to release their oils (3-5 minutes).

5.  Add the cooked lentils and chili powder. Saute for 2-3 minutes.

6.  Use a potato masher to mash the lentils so it looks and has the texture as taco meat. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

7.  Spritz with lemon or lime juice and pair with one of the optional grain pairings or use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or a veggie bowl. 

#lunch #dinner #vata #pitta #kapha #summer #spring #winter #fall #kidfriendly #ontheroad

Notes

• If you are hungry but don't have a lot of groceries and are not feeling creative, this is a great meal that everyone will love.

• I think it goes great with the green herby quinoa - that has so much flavor that you don't really need a sauce and it is very easy to make. This makes for a very satiating taco bowl :).

• The fennel bulb pesto is good with this as well but so are any of the #sauces. Pick your favorite and play with it! You can also pair this with a couple slices of avocado, fresh cilantro, and fresh lime juice if you don't feel like making a sauce.