This Quinoa Taco Meat is completely plant-based and high in protein. It’s easy to prepare and makes a fantastic substitute for traditional taco meat.

Ingredients in these tofu tacos:
- Tofu – use firm or extra-firm tofu for best texture. Silken tofu will not work well.
- Quinoa – this recipe uses 1 cup cooked quinoa. Leftover quinoa from the fridge is perfect, but freshly cooked quinoa works fine too.
- Onion & garlic – adjust quantities to taste. They add wonderful flavor to the taco meat.
- Spices – a store-bought taco seasoning can be used for convenience. To make your own, combine chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cumin and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Your favorite taco toppings

How to make this Vegan Taco Meat:
This recipe is quick and straightforward.
1. Pat the tofu dry and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Pressing is optional; the skillet will release excess moisture, but you can press it briefly if you prefer a firmer texture.
2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the cooked quinoa and the crumbled tofu to the skillet. Sprinkle in the spices (or a few tablespoons of store-bought taco seasoning) and stir to combine.


4. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the spices are well incorporated.
5. Serve the taco meat in warmed tortillas and top with your favorite garnishes—lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, salsa, lime, cilantro, or a dairy-free crema all work beautifully.

If you make this recipe, feel free to share and tag on social media—it’s always nice to see how you customize it.
More Vegetarian Tacos that you might like:
- Vegan Crispy Chick/n Tacos
- Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos
- Baked Avocado Tacos with Roasted Veggie Salsa
- Sheet Pan Squash Tacos
More Tofu recipes you’ll love:
- How to Cook Tofu (every which way)
- Copycat Chipotle Sofritas
- Easy Sautéed Tofu with Creamy Tahini Sauce
- Tofu Caprese Skewers
- Cashew Tofu Stir Fry
- Perfect Baked Tofu
- Tofu Kebabs
- How to Grill Tofu
- Sheet Pan Tofu & Veggies
- Tofu Scramble
Quinoa Tofu Taco Meat
Brita Britnell
5 mins
10 mins
15 mins
2 servings

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ~8 ounces tofu (about half of a 15 ounce block)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the tofu dry and crumble it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Add the cooked quinoa, tofu crumbles, and spices. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through and well combined.
- Serve with your favorite taco toppings and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Tried this recipe?
Mention @foodwithfeeling or tag #foodwithfeeling when you share your creation.