Go Back
–+ servings
Plant based tofu taco meat in a round white bowl and a silver spoon next to two soft shell tacos.

Tofu Taco Crumbles

Savory, crumbly, and perfectly seasoned, this healthy tofu taco meat tastes just like classic ground beef taco filling - but it’s plant-based and protein-packed.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save
Author Kori Butler
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 94 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 to 16 ounce block extra-firm tofu, pressed well
  • 21 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
  • ¼ cup chunky salsa
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons Seeking Good Eats Taco Seasoning (or a store bought packet)
  • ½ cup water

Instructions
 

  • Press the tofu between layers of paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible - this is what gives you that meaty texture.
  • Use your hands or a fork to crumble into small, uneven pieces similar to raw ground beef.
    Breaking apart a block of tofu with a silver fork to make plant based tofu taco meat crumbles.
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tofu and cook 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it dries out and lightly browns in spots.
    Adding the plant based tofu taco meat crumbles to a cast iron pan and using a spatula to move around to brown the tofu.
  • Add taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Stir and simmer 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir in salsa. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    Adding the seasoning and salsa to the cast iron pan to finish making plant based tofu taco meat.

Kori's Tips

For more helpful hints, substitution ideas, cooking tips, and other delicious recipes check out my post above.
TIPS: Press tofu well so it browns instead of steams. Crumble finely for a true ground beef texture. Let it sit between stirs to develop crispy bits. Adjust salt at the end if your taco seasoning already contains it.
VARIATIONS: Add cayenne for heat. Stir in a spoonful of salsa while simmering. Boost smokiness with smoked paprika. Mix in black beans or finely diced mushrooms for extra heartiness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Spoon into tacos or burritos. Add to bowls or taco salads. Sprinkle over nachos or layer into quesadillas. Stuff into baked sweet potatoes or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

Nutrition

Calories: 94kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 8gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 228mgPotassium: 234mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 239IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 2mg
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Mention @seekinggoodeatsofficial or tag #seekinggoodeats! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive more healthy delicious recipes straight to your inbox.

© 2025 Seeking Good Eats™