15-Minute Seasoned Lentil Taco and Burrito Filling

Prep: 5 minCook: 10 min3 servingsmediumMexican
Seasoned Lentil Taco and Burrito Filling

Plant-based taco and burrito filling made from rinsed lentils simmered with chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cornstarch until thick. Ready in minutes, this versatile mixture works for tacos, burritos, or taco salads. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

3 servings
  • 1 ½ can (15 ounce) lentils, black or brown mixture
  • ¾ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoon chili powder
    ancho powder1:1heat

    adds depth

    Full guide →
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
    ground coriander0.5:1spice swap

    3

    Full guide →
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoon cornstarch
    arrowroot powder1:1thickener

    vegetable starch alternative

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse and drain lentils.

  2. 2

    Warm lentils in a pan over medium heat.

  3. 3

    Add seasoned salt, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, cornstarch, and water.

  4. 4

    Stir very frequently until mixture comes to a boil.

  5. 5

    Continue heating until mixture thickens.

  6. 6

    Use as taco or burrito filling.

Tips

Tip 1

Stir frequently as mixture warms to prevent sticking and ensure even seasoning distribution.

Tip 2

Mixture will thicken rapidly once boiling, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat on stovetop with splash of water if needed.

Make Ahead

Prepare filling up to 2 days ahead; store covered in refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling tacos or burritos.

Serve With

Use immediately as filling for warm tortillas, taco shells, or over taco salad greens. Top with desired garnishes.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Stir infrequently to avoid lumpy texture and uneven seasoning distribution.

Watch

Skip cornstarch for watery filling that will not hold together in tortillas.

Watch

Use high heat to risk burning spices and scorching lentils on pan bottom.

Substitutions

chili powder
ancho powder1:1heat

adds depth

Full guide →
cornstarch
arrowroot powder1:1thickener

vegetable starch alternative

Full guide →
cornstarch
masa harina1:1thickener

adds corn flavor

Full guide →
cumin
ground coriander0.5:1spice swap

3

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →