Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional ground beef? This Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and texture that will satisfy your cravings. With ingredients that are wholesome and plant-based, this recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to add more plant-based meals to their diet without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring new culinary horizons, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

The Upside of Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe

Switching to a plant-based diet has numerous benefits, both for your health and the environment. This Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe offers a rich source of protein and healthy fats while being lower in saturated fats compared to animal products. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more whole foods into your meals. You’ll love how versatile this recipe is; it can be used in tacos, spaghetti sauce, or as a topping for pizzas.

What’s in the Bowl

To prepare this delicious Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
• 1 cup raw walnuts, finely diced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1/2 cup salsa (no sugar added)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Equipment Breakdown

To make this Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

• Medium saucepan: For cooking quinoa in vegetable broth.
• Skillet: To sauté and blend the ingredients together.
• Cutting board and knife: For dicing walnuts and prepping ingredients.
• Mixing spoon: For combining ingredients evenly.

Cook Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe Like This

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and low-sodium vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the broth has been absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare the Walnuts

While the quinoa is cooking, finely dice the raw walnuts. This will help them blend seamlessly into the ground beef mixture, giving it a fantastic texture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large skillet, combine the cooked quinoa, diced walnuts, tomato paste, nutritional yeast, salsa, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, marinara sauce, and oregano. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture

Place the skillet over medium heat and cook the mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Your Plant-Based Ground Beef is now ready to be served! Use it in tacos, as a spaghetti sauce topping, or in any dish that calls for ground beef. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of a wholesome meal.

Dietary Customizations

This Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe is adaptable to fit various dietary preferences:

• Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or cooked lentils to maintain texture.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Herb Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors.

Don’t Do This

When making this Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe, avoid the following:

• Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa; it helps remove bitterness.
• Do not overcook the walnuts; they should retain some crunch.
• Avoid using high-sodium broth; it can overpower the dish.
• Don’t rush the simmering process; letting the flavors develop is crucial.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can easily make this Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe ahead of time. Here are some storage tips:

This mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through.

Reader Questions

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, bulgur, or even cooked lentils for different textures and flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This Plant-Based Ground Beef is perfect for meal prepping. It can be made in advance and stored for easy weeknight meals.

Can I make this recipe in bulk?

Definitely! This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume.

What can I serve with this Plant-Based Ground Beef?

This mixture is versatile! Serve it with taco shells, over pasta, in a burrito, or on a salad. The possibilities are endless!

Try These Next

If you enjoyed this Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe, you might also like:

• Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegan Buddha Bowl
• Simple Vegan Chili
• Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

See You at the Table

This Plant-Based Ground Beef Recipe is a delightful and nourishing addition to your plant-based repertoire. With its rich flavors, satisfying texture, and versatility, it’s sure to win over even the most ardent meat lovers. We hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as we did! Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and don’t forget to share the results with us. Happy cooking!