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Spiced Lentil Tacos

These spiced lentil tacos offer a vibrant and satisfying alternative to traditional meat fillings, making them a brilliant choice for a nutritious midweek meal. The earthy brown lentils absorb the smoky taco spices beautifully, creating a hearty, high-protein base that even the most dedicated meat-eaters will enjoy. Topped with a cooling chipotle-infused soured cream and fresh salad, every bite provides a perfect balance of heat, texture and zest.

As a high-protein vegetarian dish, this recipe is ideal for those looking to increase their plant-based intake without sacrificing flavour. It is a brilliant option for family dinners or casual hosting, as the lentil mixture can be prepared in advance and served alongside bowls of fresh toppings. Simply serve with a squeeze of lime for a bright, homemade finish.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spiced Lentil Tacos

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 240ml finely chopped onion

  • 1 clove garlic, chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 240ml dried brown lentils, rinsed

  • 1 package (60g) taco seasoning

  • 600ml vegetable broth

  • 120ml fat-free soured cream

  • 1 chipotle chilli in adobo sauce, finely chopped (use half for less heat)

  • 2 teaspoons adobo sauce

  • 8 taco shells

  • 1 1/4 cups shredded lettuce

  • 1 cup chopped tomato

  • 120ml shredded reduced-fat (2 percent) cheddar

How to make Spiced Lentil Tacos

Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook onion, garlic and salt until onion begins to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add lentils and taco seasoning. Cook until spices are fragrant and lentils are dry, about 1 minute. Add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until lentils are tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Mix soured cream, chilli and adobo sauce in a bowl. Uncover lentils and cook until mixture thickens, 6 to 8 minutes. Mash with a rubber spatula. Spoon 60ml lentil mixture into each taco shell. Top with 2 heaping teaspoons soured cream mixture, lettuce, tomato and cheese.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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