Craving bold, smoky flavor without the meat? These vegan soy curl carne asada tacos are a high-protein, plant-based twist on a classic, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep with serious flavor and zero compromise!

This vegan version of traditional Carne Asada is super flavorful and packed with plant-based protein. These meatless tacos are made with marinated soy curls (I used Butler’s Soy Curls) which have a surprisingly meaty texture and tender bite, without the meat!

Vegan Mexican food is always a winner! So, try this recipe out for dinner and share with friends and family. Show others how delicious vegan food can be!

What are soy curls?

Soy curls are a plant based protein alternative made by soaking and boiling whole soybeans, and then shaping and dehydrating them. When the soy curls are rehydrated prior to cooking, the resulting texture is similar to chicken. Because they are dehydrated, soy curls are excellent at absorbing any flavor they are marinated in, making them a versatile and valuable addition to any vegan menu.

How to make soy curls taste “beefy”

The key part of making the vegan carne asada taste beefy, is the marinating broth. I made a “no-beef” broth using Edward & Son’s Not-Beef Bouillon Cubes. This vegan broth gave the soy curls a beef-like flavor that is perfectly complemented by the other seasonings in the carne asada. If you cannot find no-beef broth or bouillon, you can use mushroom broth instead.

Vegan Carne Asada Ingredients and Substitutions

This plant based version of carne asada uses a marinade similar to the traditional version, but with a few tweaks. For this recipe you will need:

Soy curls. For a more Whole Foods Plant Based friendly version, swap the soy curls for sliced portobello or oyster mushrooms.
Not-beef broth or beefless bouillon cubes. If you are unable to find beefless broth, you can use mushroom broth.
Orange juice
Fresh cilantro
Limes
Soy sauce. This recipe can be gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari and using corn tortillas.
Spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and chili powder.
Sugar. Make sure it is vegan-friendly. Many white sugars may be processed with bonemeal. Choosing organic cane sugar and coconut sugar are safe options.
Corn or flour tortillas
Taco fixings, like diced white onion and hot sauce.

How to make Soy Curl Asada

In a large saucepan (2-3 quarts), bring the beefless broth to a simmer. Remove from heat, add the dehydrated soy curls, and let sit for 10 minutes.
In a large marinating container (~9×13″) with a lid, combine the orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, chopped cilantro, and spices. Mix well.
Add the soy curls to the marinating container and stir to combine. Cover, and let sit for at least 1 hour, or overnight/during the day in the fridge.
Transfer the marinated soy curls (minus excess broth) to a large non-stick skillet. Cook on medium-high heat for 15 minutes, mixing frequently to prevent sticking. If they are sticking too much, add 1/4 cup of excess broth, or 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil.
Once the excess marinade has cooked off and the soy curls have browned slightly (and your house smells AMAZING), remove the pan from the heat.
Heat tortillas, prepare your toppings, and assemble your delicious vegan carne asada tacos!

Equipment Needed

2-3 quart saucepan
Large marinating container, such as a 9×13-inch lasagna dish with a lid.
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking utensils
Chopping knife
Cutting board

My favorite way to enjoy this plant based carne asada is simple. I like to add fresh white onion, cilantro, and a bit of hot sauce…so so good! But feel free to add other fixings, like avocado, pico de gallo, corn, or shredded cabbage.

This vegan taco recipe is awesome no matter how it is served, because it is:

Meal-prep worthy
Kid friendly
Easy to make in large batches for parties or family gatherings
Can easily be gluten free
Full of plant based protein!

Interested in quick & easy vegan meal ideas? (Who isn’t?!) Enter your email for a FREE vegan recipe eBook with 10 vegan dinners that are ready in 30 minutes or less!

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With their bold seasoning, tender texture, and high-protein punch, these vegan soy curl carne asada tacos prove you don’t need meat for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this plant-based recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Let me know if you tried this recipe by leaving a comment! If you loved it, feel free to share on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest!