Walnut Meat

Try walnut meat for a vegan ground beef option that’s incredibly easy to prepare and budget-friendly. This recipe uses simple everyday ingredients to transform nuts into a rich, savory, flavor-packed meat substitute.

This no-fuss walnut meat is the perfect filling for tacos, burritos, and salad bowls. Plus, it comes together in no time! For another quick and healthy meat replacement, try my tofu ground beef.

Why I love this recipe

Walnut meat is one of my go-to choices when I need a taco or burrito filling. It comes together with just 9 basic ingredients and a single skillet, making it the ideal vegan meat substitute whenever you need a last-minute lunch or dinner.

The rich, nutty texture of the walnuts combined with taco seasoning, and other savory aromatics creates a satisfying combination perfect for taco nights.

Ingredient notes

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need for this walnut taco meat recipe:

• Walnuts: Provide a rich, nutty base, and mimic the texture of ground meat once pulsed. Walnuts are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
• White onion: Adds a slight sweetness and crisp texture, enhancing the savory flavor.
• Avocado oil: Provides a mild, buttery taste and a high smoke point, making it ideal for sautéing. It also gives the dish a rich flavor without overpowering it.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves impart a savory, zesty flavor that mellows out once cooked.
• Tomato paste: Add a concentrated burst of tangy savoriness to balance the richness of the walnuts and oil.
• Taco seasoning: Provides the spice and zest typical of taco meat, tying all the flavors together. You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own.
• Soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce imparts umami, increasing the overall savoriness without adding too much sodium.

Substitutions

• Walnuts: If you don’t have walnuts, try pecans or almonds. Both options will change the texture slightly, making it less dense, so I suggest using a slightly larger amount.
• Onion: Red or yellow onions are both great options as well. Use the same amount.
• Avocado oil: You can use olive oil for avocado oil. Use the same amount.
• Garlic: You can use garlic powder in a pinch. Substitute ¼-teaspoon for every clove.
• Tomato paste: No tomatoes on hand? Try roasted red peppers, fresh tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes (oiled). Texture will be different, but you can emulate the flavor.
• Soy sauce: Try tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option with an equal savory depth. Use a 1:1 ratio.

How to make

If you want to know the easiest way to make walnut meat, follow my detailed instructions below!

Preparation

Rinse the walnuts under cold water to remove any dust or residues. Finely chop the white onion.

Cooking

Step 1

Soak the walnuts in boiling water for 30 minutes. This softens the walnuts, making them easier to pulse into a meat-like texture without turning into butter.

Step 2

Drain the walnuts and transfer them to a food processor. Pulse until the walnuts are coarsely ground, resembling traditional ground meat. Be careful not to over-process.

Step 3

Heat your avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic followed by the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture, then add water and stir well. This helps distribute the spices evenly and creates a cohesive flavor throughout the walnut meat.

Step 5

Whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, and tomato paste into a small glass. Then toss it into the pan with the seasoned onions.

Step 6

Add the ground walnuts, and stir everything together and cook for 3 minutes until the walnuts have absorbed the liquids and the mixture is hot.

Expert tip

To achieve the most “meaty” walnut taco meat, you need to nail the texture of the nuts. I don’t recommend turning your food processor on and walking away. Pulse the walnuts in short bursts to better control the consistency.

Over-processing can quickly lead from a meaty crumble to a pasty walnut butter, ruining the final dish. Aim for a coarse grind that holds together slightly when pinched — this mimics the mouthfeel of ground meat and ensures the walnuts absorb flavors effectively.

Serving suggestions

This walnut meat pairs well with a variety of dishes! Toss it over a crisp vegan wedge salad or cilantro lime pasta salad to add a protein boost. Or, stuff it into bell peppers and roast them for a hearty and nutritious meal.

It's also perfect as a taco filling, topped with a spoonful of vegan guacamole and salsa for a well-balanced and flavorful lunch or dinner.

Cooking tips

• Soak the walnuts properly: Make sure your nuts are fully submerged in hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften them.
• Dry the walnuts before processing: After soaking, pat the walnuts dry with a clean tea towel or paper towel to avoid a soggy mixture.
• Let the mixture sit before serving: Allowing the walnut meat to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors to meld together and deepen.

Frequently asked questions

Storing & reheating

If you have leftover walnut meat, it can easily be stored for later! Let it cool to room temperature.

Fridge
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 5 days. Use an airtight container for the best results.

Freezer
Freezing is also an option for walnut meat. Pack it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Place the walnut meat in a skillet over low heat and stir occasionally until it's heated through.

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