Vegetarian Carne Asada Tacos

Ingredients

To adapt this dish to vegetarian cuisine, we will replace the traditional beef with a plant-based protein alternative. By using marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms, we achieve a similar texture and smoky flavor that resembles the original carne asada. We alse have the original recipe for Carne asada tacos, so you can check it out.

• 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce 3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced red onion 1/2 cup (75g) diced red onion
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the portobello mushrooms in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Grill the marinated mushrooms for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Slice the grilled mushrooms into thin strips.
6. 6.
   Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
7. 7.
   Fill each tortilla with the sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Vegetarian Carne Asada Tacos with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Portobello mushrooms — Make sure to remove the stems before marinating and grilling. This will help the mushrooms cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of smoked sea salt to the marinade.
• If you prefer a spicier taste, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on the grilled mushrooms.
• To add a creamy element, top the tacos with a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado slices.
• Experiment with different toppings such as pickled jalapenos, shredded vegan cheese, or sliced radishes.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the marinated mushrooms in a hot skillet for a similar result.

Serving advice

Serve these Vegetarian Carne Asada Tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced mushrooms and toppings neatly on the tortillas, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through. Serve the tacos on a colorful platter or individual plates for an eye-catching presentation.