Heart-Healthy Vegan Chorizo

Elevate your plant-based meals with this Heart-Healthy Vegan Chorizo, a smoky, protein-packed alternative bursting with bold, authentic flavors. Made with nutrient-rich walnuts and lentils, this recipe mimics the crumbly texture and spicy kick of traditional chorizo, but without the saturated fats or cholesterol. A harmonious blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder delivers depth and warmth, while tamari and apple cider vinegar add umami-rich tang. Quick and easy, this vegan chorizo comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, grain bowls, or even as a pizza topping. It’s not just delicious—it’s a wholesome, heart-healthy option the whole family will love.

Nutriscore Rating: 87/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup walnuts
• 1.5 cups cooked lentils
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Directions

Step 1

Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts and cooked lentils. Pulse a few times until the mixture is crumbly, resembling the texture of ground meat. Do not over-process.

Step 3

Add the ground flaxseed, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the food processor. Pulse a few more times to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari (or soy sauce), apple cider vinegar, water, and tomato paste until smooth.

Step 5

Pour the liquid mixture into the food processor and pulse until everything is evenly combined. You should have a moist, crumbly mixture that can hold together slightly when pressed.

Step 6

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Spread the vegan chorizo mixture in an even layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and warmed through. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

Step 7

Serve immediately as a filling for tacos, burritos, or grain bowls, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	547.9 grams (547.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1315

Total Fat 87.40g	112%
Saturated Fat 8.30g	42%
Polyunsaturated Fat 56.60g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1091mg	47%
Total Carbohydrate 100.60g	37%
Dietary Fiber 41.50g	148%
Total Sugars 13.20g
Protein 55.40g	111%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 306mg	24%
Iron 20mg	113%
Potassium 2428mg	52%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.8%

Protein: 15.7%

Carbs: 28.5%