Imagine biting into a warm, crispy wrap that oozes with creamy vegan queso and perfectly seasoned lentils. Our Vegan Crunchwraps take a fast-food favorite and transform it into a mouthwatering, plant-based sensation. This recipe is not only vegan but also incredibly satisfying, with a delightful crunch in every bite. Prepare the lentil filling in advance, whip up the queso the day before, and have your fresh veggies ready to go for an effortless assembly. Dive into our detailed guide and create the ultimate vegan crunchwrap that will leave everyone craving more.
A Brief History of Crunchwraps
The original Crunchwrap Supreme, introduced by Taco Bell, quickly became a beloved menu item due to its unique combination of textures and flavors. However, the traditional version is laden with meat and dairy. Our vegan rendition retains the signature crunch and layers of deliciousness while offering a healthier, plant-based alternative. By using lentils, vegan queso, and fresh vegetables, we recreate this iconic dish with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
For the Lentil Filling
- 2 1/2 cups cooked green lentils (from about 1 cup dried)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Kosher salt
For the Crunchy Wraps
- 8 large flour tortillas
- Chipotle Vegan Queso
- 8 tostada shells
- Guacamole
- Shredded lettuce
- Quartered cherry tomatoes
- Vegetable oil, for pan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Cook this mixture, mashing the chipotle pepper with a wooden spoon, until the tomato paste darkens slightly, approximately 2 minutes.
Add the ground cumin and coriander, and season with kosher salt to taste. Incorporate the cooked green lentils and 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir to combine all the ingredients, then cook, occasionally mashing some of the lentils, until they are heated through and partially mashed, with no liquid remaining in the skillet, about 5 minutes. If the skillet becomes too dry, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 2: Build the Crunchy Wraps
Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous portion of the spiced lentil filling into the center of the tortilla, leaving enough space around the edges for folding. Drizzle a hearty amount of chipotle vegan queso over the lentil filling.
Place a tostada shell on top of the queso. Spread an even layer of guacamole over the tostada shell. Scatter shredded lettuce and quartered cherry tomatoes over the guacamole.
Step 3: Fold the Crunchwraps
Carefully fold the edges of the tortilla towards the center, creating pleats to form a secure wrap. Gently invert the wrap so that the pleats are on the bottom, ensuring they stay together during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Crunchwraps
In a medium skillet, heat a thin layer of vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Place one crunchwrap in the skillet, seam-side down. Cook until the bottom is golden brown and crispy, about 3 minutes. Flip the wrap and cook the other side until equally golden and crisp, another 3 minutes. Transfer the cooked wrap to a plate and repeat with the remaining wraps.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Crunchwraps
Prepare in Advance
To make the process smoother, prepare the lentil filling up to four days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chipotle vegan queso can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge. Prep your lettuce and tomatoes on the morning of your meal.
Customize Your Filling
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste. You can add sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the lentil mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Experiment with Tortillas
While flour tortillas are traditional, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer.
Perfect the Crunch
Ensure your skillet and oil are adequately heated before adding the wraps. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden, crispy exterior.
Serve with Dips
Serve your vegan crunchwraps with additional sides like salsa, vegan sour cream, or hot sauce to enhance the flavors.