Do Share Recipe

Vegan Steak Tacos Recipe with Creamy Chipotle Sauce

The first time I whipped up these vegan steak tacos, I couldn’t believe how satisfying they were. The crispy vegan steak paired with a creamy chipotle sauce and fresh cabbage creates a taco that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

They’re quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. I love how versatile they are, making it easy to customize to suit everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re already vegan or just curious, these tacos will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Vegan Steak Tacos Recipe

Here are some ingredients for making vegan steak tacos:

For the vegan steak:

10 ounces vegan steak tips (such as Beyond Meat)
2 tablespoons avocado oil
1/2 red onion, diced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Juice of 1 lime

For the chipotle sauce:

1/4 cup vegan mayo
1/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy yogurt
1 garlic clove, peeled
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
1/2 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
Juice of 1/2 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Water for thinning

For the tacos:

8 corn tortillas
1/2 small head of cabbage, shredded
1-2 avocados, sliced
1 bunch of cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving

Note: This recipe yields approximately 8 tacos, serving 4 people.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own:

Spicy Kick: Add extra chipotle or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for more heat.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the tortillas and taco seasoning are certified gluten-free.
Oil-Free: Cook the vegan steak using a non-stick skillet without oil.
Extra Veggies: Toss in roasted bell peppers or corn kernels for added color and flavor.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Cast iron skillet: Ideal for getting the vegan steak extra crispy.
Food processor or blender: To mix the creamy chipotle sauce.
Tongs: For flipping tortillas or vegan steak pieces during cooking.
Cutting board: For prepping all your fresh toppings.
Knife: To dice and slice the onion, avocado, and cabbage.

How to Make Vegan Steak Tacos?

Making these tacos is straightforward and fun! With just a few steps, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Step 1: Cook the Vegan Steak

Start by heating avocado oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, toss in the vegan steak tips and sprinkle them with taco seasoning.

Spread them evenly in the pan and allow them to cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes to form a crisp crust. Stir the steak and cook for an additional 5 minutes, then finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a bright, zesty flavor.

Step 2: Make the Chipotle Sauce

While the steak is cooking, whip up the chipotle sauce. Add vegan mayo, non-dairy yogurt, garlic clove, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor.

Blend until smooth, adding a little water to thin it to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed, tasting as you go.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

Warm your tortillas over an open flame for a slight char, or use a dry skillet. This step enhances their flavor and creates the perfect base for your fillings.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Once the tortillas are warm, start layering your tacos. Add a scoop of shredded cabbage, a portion of the crispy vegan steak, and slices of creamy avocado. Drizzle with the chipotle sauce and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a citrusy punch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons to try these delicious vegan steak tacos:

Full of bold, smoky, and creamy flavors.
Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
Perfect balance of crispy textures and fresh toppings.
Great for vegans and non-vegans alike.

How to Serve Vegan Steak Tacos?

Presentation is key! Arrange the tacos on a platter for a stunning display. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges, and serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole. These tacos also pair wonderfully with cold beverages like hibiscus tea or margaritas for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per taco (without extra sides or garnishes):

Calories: 264
Protein: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 23 g
Fat: 15 g

Make Ahead and Storage

You can easily prepare components of this recipe in advance. The chipotle sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Similarly, cook the vegan steak ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

To reheat, use a skillet to warm the steak without drying it out. Avoid microwaving as it could affect the texture. Leftovers can also be frozen for about a month. Defrost overnight and crisp up in a skillet before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

From my experience making these tacos, here are a few tips to ensure the best results:

Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds a bright, refreshing touch.
Use a cast iron skillet for maximum crispiness on the vegan steak.
Thin the sauce to your liking by gradually adding water.
Prep all the toppings beforehand to make assembling the tacos a breeze.

Is Vegan Steak Healthy?

Yes, vegan steak is a healthy plant-based protein option. It’s typically made from ingredients like soy or pea protein, offering a good amount of nutrients without the saturated fats found in traditional meat. Plus, it’s cholesterol-free, making it suitable for heart-conscious eaters.

Why Is It Called Vegan?

The term “vegan” refers to foods that are entirely plant-based, without using any animal-derived ingredients. Vegan steak mimics the texture and flavor of traditional steak while being cruelty-free. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy classic dishes more sustainably and compassionately.

These vegan steak tacos are a game-changer, combining convenience, flavor, and versatility in one dish. They’re perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to satisfy even the most skeptical eater. Enjoy!

Ben Carraoli