One of my favorite vegan tacos I have ever had used hibiscus flower as the meat replacement. This happened to be in a small restaurant in the Southern area of Mexico City, and I wonder why this has not yet become wildly popular. While hibiscus is not used as a protein replacement, its chewy and tender texture when cooked makes it a great meat alternative. Hibiscus flower is known to help lower blood pressure, reduce blood sugar levels, support the liver, and reduce menstrual cramps. You can make the most of this ingredient by using the same batch to make tea and a delicious side dish that will add color, flavor, texture, and a conversation starter to any dinner party. Serve it on corn tortillas, or with a side of your favorite veggies as shown in the pictures. The hibiscus itself will taste very sour, as if soaked in lemon juice, so make sure to add in some avocado to tone down the taste and create the perfect side dish duo. While the preparation process takes long because you have to let it steep for 2 hours, it only really takes 5 minutes to cook after the water has been drained, so it is probably one of the easiest vegan recipes I have ever made.
Easy Vegan Hibiscus Flower Meat Alternative (For Tacos, Burritos, Bowls & More!)
Recipe Type:
Allergen Free Hearty Entrees
YIELDS
2 servings
PREP TIME
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
- 1 cup Dry hibiscus
- 1 Red onion
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 Avocado
- 2 table spoons Oil of choice
- 4-5 cups Water
Directions
- Boil 4-5 cups of water.
- Add dry hibiscus and let it steep for 2 hours (until chewy and tender).
- Finely dice 2 garlic cloves.
- Thinly slice 1 red onion.
- After steeping for 2 hours, drain hibiscus (save this water in the fridge and drink it as iced tea!).
- Heat pan and add oil, garlic, and onions.
- Simmer for 5 minutes in low heat (or until onions look a bit transparent).
- Add hibiscus and mix well for 3 minutes.
- Serve with avocado.
