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Crunchy Lentil Tacos

Ingredients
  

For the taco seasoning

  • 1 tsp. ground cayenne
  • ¼ cup chili powder
  • ¼ cup sweet paprika
  • 2 Tbs. smoked paprika
  • 2 Tbs. dried oregano
  • 2 Tbs. ground cumin
  • 1 Tbs. garlic powder
  • 1 Tbs. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. black pepper

For the tacos

  • Kosher salt
  • 2 Tbs. olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped finely
  • 3 cloves of garlic minced
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth, if you prefer
  • 2 Tbs. taco seasoning
  • 10–12 hard taco shells
  • Favorite toppings freshly grated cheddar cheese, iceberg lettuce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, salsa, pickled jalapenos, etc.

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • First, measure all taco seasoning spices into a jar, seal with a lid, and shake well to combine. You’ll end up with approximately 1 cup of taco seasoning, which can be stored in your cupboard for later use.
  • In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until the onion softens and begins to turn golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 Tbs. of the homemade taco seasoning and 1 tsp. of kosher salt, and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Add the lentils and chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and raise the heat to high. Bring to a boil and then lower to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid and allow the last bit of the liquid to cook out, stirring.
  • Serve spiced lentils with crunchy taco shells, shredded lettuce, grated cheese, diced tomato, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, salsa, and any other classic toppings your heart may crave.