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Instant Pot Quinoa Taco Meat Substitute-1

Instant Pot Quinoa Taco Meat Substitute

This Instant Pot Quinoa Taco Meat Substitute is a quick, protein-rich, and flavorful plant-based alternative to ground taco meat. Perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls, it’s loaded with southwest spices to please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dry quinoa rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz / ~425 g) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup salsa mild or medium, depending on preference
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • 1 Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Spatula or spoon
  • 1 Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove the bitter coating.
  2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and allow it to heat for 1 minute.
  3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the Instant Pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until slightly toasted.
  4. Add water or vegetable broth, black beans, salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cancel sauté mode. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure valve to sealing.
  6. Cook on manual high pressure for 1 minute.
  7. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
  8. Carefully open the lid, fluff the mixture with a fork, and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt if needed.
  9. Serve warm. Use as a taco filling, in bowls, or for burritos.

Notes

You can store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime or a handful of chopped cilantro after cooking.
If you like, stir in some corn or diced bell pepper before cooking for a heartier texture.