Vegetarian Carne Desmenuzada

Ingredients

In this vegetarian adaptation, the traditional meat is replaced with textured vegetable protein (TVP), a plant-based protein source that mimics the texture of meat when rehydrated. The spices and flavors remain true to the original recipe, ensuring that the vegetarian version captures the essence of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Carne desmenuzada, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (200g) textured vegetable protein (TVP) 2 cups (200g) textured vegetable protein (TVP)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, rehydrate the textured vegetable protein (TVP) according to package instructions. Drain any excess water and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Add the rehydrated TVP to the skillet and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the TVP mixture. Stir to evenly coat the ingredients with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour vegetable broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar into the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the TVP to absorb the sauce.
7. 7.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Textured vegetable protein (TVP) — Ensure that you rehydrate the TVP properly according to the package instructions. This will help achieve the desired texture and consistency for the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of smoked paprika and black pepper.
• Serve the Vegetarian Carne Desmenuzada with warm tortillas, rice, and beans for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or sandwiches.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture for a few extra minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Carne Desmenuzada as a main dish accompanied by rice, beans, and a side of sliced avocado. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange a generous portion of the Vegetarian Carne Desmenuzada on a plate, placing the rice and beans alongside it. Top with avocado slices and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an appealing presentation.