Description
These California ‘Carne Asada’ Tacos offer a plant-based twist on the classic carne asada, using vital wheat gluten simmered in a flavorful broth to create a chewy, savory protein that’s sautéed to crispy perfection. Served in warm corn tortillas with guacamole, salsa, cilantro, and crispy French fries on the side, these tacos are a delicious, hearty vegan meal inspired by California street food.
Ingredients
Scale
Broth Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp thyme
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/2 tbsp liquid smoke
Vegan Protein Dough
- 2 cups vital wheat gluten
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp garlic salt
- 1 cup water (plus additional as needed)
Taco Assembly
- Corn tortillas
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- French fries (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a pot, combine 6 cups of water with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, crushed garlic cloves, bay leaves, thyme, sliced onion, and liquid smoke. Bring the mixture to a boil to infuse all the flavors.
- Make the Dough: While waiting for the broth to boil, mix vital wheat gluten, cumin, and garlic salt in a large bowl. Gradually add 1 cup of water, stirring continuously, until a sponge-like dough forms that is moist but not too wet.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth, preparing it for cooking.
- Cook the Dough in Broth: Cut the kneaded dough into chunks and carefully place them into the boiling broth. Reduce heat to medium and simmer the dough pieces in the broth for about an hour, allowing them to absorb the flavors and firm up.
- Prepare the ‘Carne Asada’ Pieces: Once cooked, remove the dough chunks from the broth and cut them into smaller, thin pieces resembling carne asada strips.
- Sauté for Crispiness: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dough slices and sauté until they become golden and crispy on the edges, enhancing the texture and flavor.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas, then layer with the sautéed ‘carne asada’ pieces. Top with guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of crispy French fries for a complete meal.
Notes
- Vital wheat gluten is essential for the chewy texture, making this a great vegan alternative to traditional carne asada.
- Adjust seasoning in the dough mixture to your preference; adding more garlic salt or cumin can intensify flavors.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa or guacamole.
- The cooking time for simmering the dough can be extended slightly if a firmer texture is desired.
- Use fresh corn tortillas for the best authentic taco experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: carne asada tacos, vegan tacos, vital wheat gluten recipe, plant-based carne asada, California tacos, vegan Mexican food
