Raw Taco Wraps With Walnut ‘Meat

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tacos? Look no further! In this article, we will introduce you to a mouth-watering recipe for Raw Taco Wraps with Walnut ‘Meat’. These wraps are not only packed with flavors but are also loaded with nutrients. Say goodbye to heavy, greasy taco shells and say hello to a lighter and more nutritious option. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delightful twist on a classic favorite. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Walnut ‘Meat’

To make the walnut ‘meat’ for your taco wraps, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of walnuts
• 1 tablespoon of tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt (optional)

Taco Shells

The taco shells are an essential part of any taco recipe. For this recipe, you can use either store-bought taco shells or make your own at home. If you choose to make your own, here’s what you’ll need:

• Corn tortillas (quantity depends on the number of tacos you want to make)
• Vegetable oil for frying (if making fried taco shells)

Salsa

Salsa adds a burst of flavor and freshness to your raw taco wraps. Here’s what you’ll need to make a simple salsa:

• 4-5 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Guacamole

No taco is complete without a creamy and flavorful guacamole. To make guacamole, gather these ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Cashew Sour Cream

For a tangy and creamy touch, cashew sour cream is the perfect addition to your raw taco wraps. To make cashew sour cream, you’ll need:

• 1 cup of cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours (or overnight)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/2 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• Salt to taste

Other Optional Toppings

Feel free to add any additional toppings of your choice to these raw taco wraps. Some popular options include:

• Diced red bell peppers
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced black olives
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped green onions
• Hot sauce

Preparation

Making the Walnut ‘Meat’

1. Start by placing the walnuts in a food processor and process until finely chopped. Be careful not to overprocess, as you want the texture to resemble ground meat.
2. Transfer the chopped walnuts to a mixing bowl and add the tamari or soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt (if desired).
3. Mix well until all the seasonings are evenly coated on the walnuts.
4. Allow the walnut ‘meat’ to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Preparing the Taco Shells

1. If using store-bought taco shells, follow the instructions on the packaging for heating or crisping them.
2. If you prefer homemade taco shells, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, carefully add one corn tortilla to the pan at a time. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden and crispy.
4. Using tongs, transfer the cooked taco shells to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Assembling the Tacos

1. Lay out the taco shells on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. Fill each taco shell with a generous amount of the walnut ‘meat’ mixture, spreading it evenly along the shell.
3. Top the walnut ‘meat’ with your desired amount of salsa, guacamole, and cashew sour cream.
4. Add any other optional toppings you desire, such as diced red bell peppers, shredded lettuce, or sliced black olives.
5. Squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos for an added zing.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the tasty and nutritious raw taco wraps!

Tips and Variations

Using Different Nuts or Seeds

While this recipe calls for walnuts, feel free to experiment with using different nuts or seeds for the ‘meat’ filling. Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds can provide a unique flavor and texture to your tacos. Be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the chosen nuts or seeds.

Adding Different Spices

For those who enjoy a bit more heat or different flavor profiles, don’t be afraid to play around with the spices in the walnut ‘meat’ mixture. Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a pinch of chipotle powder for an extra kick. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the spices according to your preferences.

Experimenting with Different Vegetables

While the traditional taco toppings mentioned in this recipe are delicious, don’t limit yourself to just those options. Get creative and try different vegetables to enhance the flavors and textures. Sliced radishes, grated carrots, or pickled onions can provide a refreshing crunch, while sautéed mushrooms or roasted Brussels sprouts can add depth and richness to your raw taco wraps.

Health Benefits

Walnuts

Walnuts are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and heart health. Walnuts also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Taco Shells

The choice of taco shells can greatly impact the overall nutritional value of your taco wraps. Opting for whole grain or corn tortillas instead of refined flour tortillas can provide more fiber and essential nutrients. Additionally, baking or grilling the taco shells rather than frying them can reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in the final dish.

Salsa

Salsa is not only a delicious addition to tacos but also a healthy one. Tomatoes, the primary ingredient in salsa, are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The onions, jalapeno pepper, and cilantro in salsa also contribute to its nutritional value, providing vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds.

Guacamole

Avocados, the star ingredient in guacamole, are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin K, vitamin E, and vitamin C. Guacamole adds a creamy texture to the taco wraps while providing essential nutrients.

Cashew Sour Cream

Cashew sour cream offers a dairy-free alternative to traditional sour cream while providing a creamy and tangy taste. Cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. This plant-based sour cream alternative is also suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle.

Vegetables

Adding vegetables to your raw taco wraps not only enhances the taste and texture but also boosts the nutritional value. Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which are all essential for maintaining good health. Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables can provide a wide range of nutrients and promote overall well-being.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive article, you now have all the information you need to create delicious and nutritious raw taco wraps. Using walnut ‘meat’, homemade or store-bought taco shells, flavorful salsa, creamy guacamole, tangy cashew sour cream, and various toppings, you can enjoy a satisfying and healthy meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different nuts, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique taco wraps. So gather your ingredients, follow the preparation steps, and indulge in the goodness of raw taco wraps!