TACO TUESDAY REINVENTED: Discover the Joy of Meatless, Oil-Free, Low-Fat Fiesta!

1. Preparation

   1. Cooking Lentils:

      You have a couple options for cooking your lentils: on the stove or in an Instant Pot.

      Stove Method:

      1. Cook lentils in a pot until they are tender.
      2. For that oil-free flair, add a tablespoon of tomato paste and a dash of smoked paprika or liguid smoke to the lentils as they cook.

      Instant Pot Method:

      1. Add lentils to your Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
      2. Just like with the stove method, add tomato paste and smoked paprika or liguid smoke to enhance the flavor of the lentils.

      Assembling Your Tacos:

      Once your lentils are perfectly cooked and flavored, it's time to assemble your tacos.

      1. Take your choice of tortillas and lay them out.
      2. Spoon the seasoned lentils onto each tortilla, creating the base of your taco.
      3. Layer on diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and finely chopped red or white onions for a burst of freshness and crunch.
      4. For that creamy element, dollop hummus onto your tacos. You can also opt for a homemade, low-fat dairy-free cheese for added indulgence.
      5. Complete your masterpiece with a dollop of dairy-free sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite lime crema and low-fat taco sauce.

      Savor the Flavor:

      Now that your Meatless Tacos are assembled, it's time to dig in and relish the explosion of flavors. These tacos are not only satisfying but also nutritious, offering a healthier take on a classic favorite. With the homemade taco seasoning, oil-free lentils, and low-fat toppings, you can enjoy every bite guilt-free.

      So, why wait? Get ready to spice up your Taco Tuesday with these delectable meatless wonders. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or just looking to incorporate more health-conscious options into your meals, these tacos are sure to be a hit.

Oil-free Alternatives

1. Low-fat options for cooking the Lentils instead of using oil.

   1. Water or Vegetable Broth: Instead of sautéing lentils in oil, you can start by sautéing diced onions and garlic in a small amount of water or vegetable broth. Once the onions are translucent, add your lentils and continue cooking them in the liquid. This will give your lentils a nice flavor without the need for oil.
   2. Steam Sautéing: This method involves using a non-stick skillet or a pan with a small amount of water to sauté your lentils. Start by adding the lentils to the dry pan and toasting them slightly. Then, add small amounts of water as needed to prevent sticking and continue sautéing until they are cooked.
   3. Boiling: You can also boil lentils by adding them to a pot of water or vegetable broth. Bring the liquid to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid after cooking.
   4. Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: If you're using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, you can cook lentils by adding them along with water or broth to the pot. Cook according to the manufacturer's instructions for lentils (usually around 8-10 minutes) and release the pressure when done.
   5. Baking: Another method is to bake your lentils. Place them in a baking dish with water or broth, cover with foil, and bake in the oven until tender. This is a hands-off method that works well for larger batches.
   6. Microwaving: You can also microwave lentils with water in a microwave-safe dish. Cook them on high for several minutes, checking and stirring periodically until they are soft.

   Remember, the key is to monitor the moisture levels and add water or broth as needed to prevent sticking and ensure your lentils cook evenly. These methods will help you achieve flavorful and tender lentils without the need for added oils.