Chipotle Vegan Chorizo Recipe That Tastes Incredible

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’ve been craving the smoky, spicy kick of traditional chorizo but want to keep it plant-based, then this Chipotle Vegan Chorizo recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Bursting with bold flavors from smoky chipotle peppers, earthy spices, and a satisfying texture, this vegan chorizo is a fantastic way to elevate any meal.

Whether you’re making tacos, scrambles, or adding a spicy punch to your favorite dishes, this recipe brings all the authenticity of chorizo without any animal products.

Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption, this chipotle vegan chorizo is easy to prepare, packed with protein, and versatile. It uses simple pantry staples and wholesome ingredients that deliver deep smoky heat and rich flavor.

Plus, it’s a healthier, cruelty-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. Get ready to spice up your meals with this delicious, homemade vegan chorizo!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chipotle vegan chorizo recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors without the meat. It’s:

  • Rich and smoky: The chipotle peppers add a deep, smoky heat that mimics traditional chorizo perfectly.
  • Protein-packed: Made primarily from textured vegetable protein or lentils, it’s a great source of plant-based protein.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and flavor intensity to suit your taste.
  • Easy to prepare: It comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
  • Versatile: Use it in tacos, burritos, vegan chili, pasta sauces, or even breakfast scrambles.

If you want to explore more vegan recipes that pack a punch, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a comforting side or Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy twist to your meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP) or cooked brown lentils
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Small saucepan (optional, for warming broth)
  • Food processor or blender (optional, if using lentils and wanting finer texture)

Instructions

  1. Rehydrate the TVP: Place the textured vegetable protein in a medium bowl and pour the warm vegetable broth over it. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until fully rehydrated and soft. If using cooked lentils, skip this step.
  2. Prepare the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add garlic and chipotle: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Mix the spices: Add the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to coat the onion and garlic mixture evenly.
  5. Add tomato paste and soy sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and soy sauce, mixing thoroughly to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
  6. Combine TVP or lentils: Add the rehydrated TVP or cooked lentils to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is heated through and slightly crispy in spots.
  7. Finish with vinegar and seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve and garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top if desired. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, ensure your soy sauce is tamari-based or use coconut aminos instead.

Feel free to experiment with different beans or mushrooms to create your own texture. For instance, finely chopped shiitake mushrooms can add a meaty bite.

If you prefer a smoky flavor without the heat, reduce or omit the chipotle peppers and cayenne.

If you want to amp up the spice, add a dash of hot sauce or an extra chipotle pepper. For a milder version, use smoked paprika only and skip the chipotle.

This recipe also freezes well, so make a big batch to enjoy later!

Try pairing this with other delicious recipes like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a hearty meal or add it to a vegan breakfast scramble alongside Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a sweet finish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 180 kcal
Protein 15 g
Fat 7 g
Carbohydrates 12 g
Fiber 6 g
Sugar 3 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

This chipotle vegan chorizo shines in so many dishes! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal:

  • Tacos: Fill warm corn tortillas with the chorizo, fresh avocado slices, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Breakfast scramble: Toss with crumbled tofu or chickpeas and sauté with bell peppers for a spicy vegan breakfast.
  • Burrito bowls: Serve over rice with black beans, corn, salsa, and vegan sour cream.
  • Pasta sauce: Stir into a tomato-based sauce for a smoky, spicy twist on your favorite pasta dishes.
  • Pizza topping: Sprinkle on vegan pizza for a flavorful, spicy bite.

Conclusion

This chipotle vegan chorizo recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the bold, smoky flavors of traditional chorizo without any animal products. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and versatile enough to use in a variety of dishes from tacos to pasta.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add some plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe is a delicious, satisfying, and nutritious choice.

Experiment with the spice levels and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t forget to pair it with other tasty recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a complete meal. Once you try this chipotle vegan chorizo, it might just become your new favorite staple in the kitchen!

📖 Recipe Card: Chipotle Vegan Chorizo

Description: A smoky, spicy vegan chorizo made with textured vegetable protein and chipotle peppers. Perfect as a flavorful meat alternative in tacos, burritos, or breakfast dishes.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Rehydrate TVP in vegetable broth for 5 minutes, then drain excess liquid.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  4. Add chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add rehydrated TVP to the pan and stir to combine.
  6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly crispy.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 20 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Marta K

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