Walnut Meat - 7 Ways!

Walnut meat is the flavorful plant-based meat alternative that's capturing the attention of food enthusiasts everywhere. Not only is it chock full of nutrients, it has the remarkable ability to mimic the texture and taste of traditional ground meat.

I love to make vegan meat alternatives, not because I think we really need to mimic meat, but because it allows vegans to enjoy a wider variety of dishes that typically use meat as a base ingredient. I've made tofu crumbles and banana peel bacon, and both of those recipes have been very popular with you guys.

So, I'm excited to introduce you to my walnut meat. It's the perfect addition to tacos, nachos, burritos, burgers or even salads. The texture and flavor is remarkably similar to ground beef. I hope you like it as much as I do!

💚Reasons You'll Love This Recipe

💚Walnuts are nutrient-dense, containing a good amount of protein, healthy fats (including omega-3 fatty acids), dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

💚Walnuts have a mild flavor on their own, which allows them to absorb and carry the flavors of seasonings and spices well. This adaptability makes it easy to customize the flavor. I've given you 7 suggestions to customize this recipe below.

💚It can be used in a wide range of dishes, from tacos and burgers to pasta sauces and casseroles.

🛒Ingredients

• Walnuts: Choose, raw, shelled, unseasoned and unsalted walnuts.
• Olive Oil: You'll need a few tablespoons of olive oil in order to moisten the walnut mixture and give it that moist, meaty texture. If you're wondering about the suitability of olive oil for a vegan diet, see this post: Is Olive Oil Vegan?
• Soy Sauce or Tamari Sauce: Choose dark soy sauce if you can. Dark soy sauce has a richer, deeper color and flavor compared to light soy sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, choose tamari sauce.
• Smoked Paprika: The smokiness of paprika adds depth and complexity.
• Cumin: Cumin has a distinct earthy, nutty flavor with a slightly citrusy and peppery undertone that's perfect for this recipe.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder blends seamlessly into the mixture, without adding the strong flavor of fresh garlic.
• Onion Powder: Onion powder has a funky taste that's hard to describe. If you want, you can also use dehydrated onions.
• Chili Powder: hili pepper, depending on the type and amount used, can add a pleasant level of spiciness.
• Salt & Pepper: We'll be seasoning the walnut meat at the end. I didn't use salt, because soy sauce is salty enough for my tastes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

👨‍🍳How To Make Walnut Meat

• Start by placing the walnuts in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the walnuts are broken down into small, crumbly pieces. Be careful not to over-process, as you want a texture resembling ground meat.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be used to flavor and moisten the walnut "meat."
• Pour the seasoning blend over the processed walnuts. Use a spatula to gently fold and mix, ensuring the walnuts are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. Allow the walnuts to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and infuse into the walnut pieces.

• Heat a skillet over medium heat. You can add a touch of olive oil if desired, but it's not necessary due to the olive oil in the marinade.
• Once the skillet is warm, add the marinated walnut mixture. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the walnut "meat" is slightly browned and heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the walnuts can become too dry.
• Taste the walnut mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Your walnut "meat" is now ready to be used in various dishes! Serve it as a taco filling with your favorite toppings, mix it into salads, stir it into pasta dishes, or use it as a protein-rich topping for baked potatoes.

💡6 More Ways To Make Walnut Meat

Mediterranean Walnut Meat

Season the walnut mixture with dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a Mediterranean twist. Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled dairy-free feta. Use this Mediterranean walnut meat as a topping for Greek salads, stuffed into pita pockets, or as a pizza topping. See the recipe quantities below.

Spicy Walnut Chorizo

Create a spicy chorizo-style vegan meat by adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a touch of ground cinnamon. Sauté with onions and bell peppers for extra flavor. Use this spiced walnut meat in tacos, breakfast burritos, or as a filling for empanadas.

Asian-Inspired Walnut Crumbles

Infuse the walnut crumbles with Asian flavors by mixing in soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and a dash of toasted sesame oil. Sauté with finely chopped bok choy, carrots, and water chestnuts. Serve as a filling for lettuce wraps, vegan sushi rolls, or stir-fry dishes.

BBQ-Style Walnut Meat

Add a smoky and sweet twist to your walnut meat by mixing in your favorite barbecue sauce, along with smoked paprika, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar. Use this BBQ walnut mixture on sandwiches, loaded fries, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Italian-Inspired Walnut Sausage

Turn your walnut meat into Italian sausage by incorporating fennel seeds, dried thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Sauté with onions and garlic, and then use it to make plant-based lasagna, stuffed mushrooms, or to top a classic Margherita pizza.

Herbed Walnut Meat for Pasta

Create a versatile herbed walnut meat by mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and chives. Toss this mixture with cooked pasta, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish. This herbed walnut meat also works well as a stuffing for eggplant.

🍽️Serving Suggestions

The versatility of walnut meat allows you to use it in numerous other dishes as well, so don't hesitate to get creative and explore different culinary options! Here's a few ideas:

• Walnut Tacos and Nachos: Use your walnut meat as a filling for tacos or sprinkle it over vegan nachos. Serve it in soft or hard taco shells and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, dairy-free cheese, and a drizzle of your favorite vegan sauce.
• Vegan Walnut Bolognese: Create a hearty and rich pasta sauce by adding your walnut meat to sautéed onions, garlic, and your favorite tomato sauce. Serve over pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
• Walnut and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mix your walnut meat with cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, herbs, and spices. Stuff the mixture into bell pepper halves and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is flavorful.
• Walnut and Spinach Salad: Toss your walnut meat with fresh baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and any other desired salad toppings. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette or a tangy lemon tahini dressing.
• Walnut "Meatball" Subs: Roll your walnut meat into small "meatballs," bake until golden, and then place them in sub rolls with marinara sauce and vegan cheese. Toast until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a satisfying sandwich.

❄️Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• If you've cooked the walnut meat and have leftovers, allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator.
• Cooked walnut meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer

• For uncooked walnut meat: Portion the uncooked walnut meat into meal-sized portions, place each portion in an airtight freezer bag or container, and press out any excess air before sealing. Label the bags with the date. Uncooked walnut meat can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• For cooked walnut meat: Allow the cooked walnut meat to cool completely before portioning and storing it in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date. Cooked walnut meat can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing

• To thaw frozen walnut meat, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw gradually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor.
• If you're in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave or gently reheat the frozen walnut meat in a skillet over low heat.

🙋Frequently Asked Questions

Craving More Easy Vegan Recipes?

Vegan Lentil Bolognese

The Best Mushroom Wellington

How To Make Mushroom Jerky

Carrot Pasta Sauce

15 Amazing Tofu Marinades

Easy Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Vegan Baked Ziti

📖 Recipe

Walnut Meat

Keri Bevan

Walnut meat is the flavorful plant-based meat alternative that's capturing the attention of food enthusiasts everywhere. Not only is it chock full of nutrients, it has the remarkable ability to mimic the texture and taste of traditional ground meat.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Marinade 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

Traditional Walnut Meat Base Recipe

• 2 cups walnuts raw and unsalted
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mediterranean Walnut Meat

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup Kalamata Olives
• ¼ cup sundried tomatoes
• ¼ cup vegan feta cheese

Spicy Walnut Chorizo

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Asian-Inspired Walnut Crumbles

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger grated
• 2 cloves of garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave

BBQ Style Walnut Meat

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
• salt and pepper to taste

Italian-Inspired Walnut Sausage

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• salt & pepper to taste

Herbed Walnut Meat For Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Start by placing the walnuts in a food processor. Pulse a few times until the walnuts are broken down into small, crumbly pieces. Be careful not to over-process, as you want a texture resembling ground meat.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be used to flavor and moisten the walnut "meat."
• Pour the seasoning blend over the processed walnuts. Use a spatula to gently fold and mix, ensuring the walnuts are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. Allow the walnuts to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and infuse into the walnut pieces.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat. You can add a touch of olive oil if desired, but it's not necessary due to the olive oil in the marinade.
• Once the skillet is warm, add the marinated walnut mixture. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the walnut "meat" is slightly browned and heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the walnuts can become too dry.
• Taste the walnut "meat" and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Your walnut "meat" is now ready to be used in various dishes! Serve it as a taco filling with your favorite toppings, mix it into salads, stir it into pasta dishes, or use it as a protein-rich topping for baked potatoes.

Mediterranean Walnut Meat

• Follow the instructions for making Basic Walnut Meat using the Mediterranean Walnut Meat ingredients.
• Once the walnut meat has been cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and dairy-free feta if using.

Spicy Walnut Chorizo

• Follow the instructions for making Basic Walnut Meat using the Spicy Walnut Chorizo ingredients.

Asian-Inspired Walnut Crumbles

• Follow the instructions for the basic walnut meat recipe, substituting the sesame oil for the olive oil and using the Asian-inspired walnut crumbles spices.

BBQ Style Walnut Meat

• Follow the instructions for making Basic Walnut Meat using the BBQ Style Walnut Meat ingredients.

Italian-Inspired Walnut Sausage

• Follow the instructions for making Basic Walnut Meat using the Italian-Inspired Walnut Sausage ingredients.

Herbed Walnut Meat For Pasta

• Follow the instructions for making Basic Walnut Meat using the Herbed Walnut Meat For Pasta ingredients.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• If you've cooked the walnut meat and have leftovers, allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator.

   

  Cooked walnut meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

 

Freezer

• For uncooked walnut meat: Portion the uncooked walnut meat into meal-sized portions, place each portion in an airtight freezer bag or container, and press out any excess air before sealing. Label the bags with the date. Uncooked walnut meat can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• For cooked walnut meat: Allow the cooked walnut meat to cool completely before portioning and storing it in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date. Cooked walnut meat can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

 

Thawing

To thaw frozen walnut meat, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw gradually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor.

• If you're in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave or gently reheat the frozen walnut meat in a skillet over low heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 6gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 19gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 3mgPotassium: 192mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 201IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 43mgIron: 1mg

Keyword walnut meat

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!