A few months ago, our team gathered in Austin for our first annual editor-in-chief conference. It’s a weekend for the books. Camille’s home is the base: We engaged in meaningful conversation, sipped organic wines, gathered for charcuterie, and learned how to make the perfect cup of green tea. We opened up our yoga mat and explored downtown Austin. On top of that, we still leave our computers open. To be together, with humans, is the breath we all need.
From Los Angeles to New York (and many cities in between), our dynamic team has found solace in slowing down. We enjoyed each other’s company. We laughed and we cried. And despite our differences, we still have things in common. It’s obvious: Our love of writing, health, and good companionship are what brought us together. That, and our unifying love of food. So you can only imagine when we met at The Well for their vegan chorizo tacos, the collective “oohs” and “aahs” went down. Of course, we had to ask them for the recipe.
Here’s why The Well is one of our favorite healthy restaurants in Austin
Suffice to say, brunch at The Well was one of our weekend highlights. This trendy Austin spot is curated for both health enthusiasts and health skeptics. If you get a chance to go, here’s your gentle nudge. While the menu is completely gluten-free, soy-free, and sugar-free, the dish is still satisfying — it’s nourishing from the inside out. Same with their drinks. With a focus on low sugar, healthy fats and clean oils, it’s clear The Well is passionate about holistic health. Eating there is nothing short of a spiritual experience.
From Sunrise Yoga to Homemade Smoothies
As a group, we started the day with an outdoor yoga/pilates class. We stretch and stretch as the sun rises above the treetops. With an empty stomach, we went to The Well — one of their functional smoothie bars was there to greet us. As we nibbled on “Revive” (an energizing blend of unsweetened açai, berries, bananas, almond butter, nuts, seed-free granola, Ceylon cinnamon, and homemade organic nut milk!), we I met their culinary director, Jon Oh. He explains The Well’s culinary philosophy and, unsurprisingly, it revolves around the use of fresh, consciously sourced ingredients, nutrition-driven recipes and innovative dishes. Whether you’re vegan, paleo, keto or Whole30, there’s a seat for you at the table. With brunch on our minds, it’s time to learn about a true Austin staple: Breakfast tacos.
Tapioca Tortillas
The Well’s takes on the classic breakfast tacos that are both a little more upscale and a little more edgy. However, they hit the mark. With smoothies in hand, we watched Jon combine some simple ingredients to make their homemade tapioca. Unlike other tortillas, these tortillas are made with heart-healthy olive oil and tapioca and are rich in complex carbohydrates and antioxidants. Tapioca is also allergen-friendly. If you are new to tapioca flour, you can use it as a substitute for white or whole wheat flour. It has a slightly grainy and earthy taste.
Vegan Lentil Chorizo
With vegan and gluten-free tortillas in the works, Jon moved on to the filling. Their standard breakfast taco comes with scrambled eggs, avocado, chard lime, salsa, etc. You can also add locally homemade bacon, mushrooms, wagyu steak or chickpeas and lentils.” chorizo.” We have the latter. When Jon started sautéing the beans, apple cider vinegar powder, cayenne pepper, herbs, etc., the aroma was nothing short of appealing. We are eager to find out more. Unlike most soy-based vegan chorizos, The Well takes a different approach. Substitute soy, chickpeas, and lentils for protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients (hello, folate and iron!). Plus, they add a meaty texture to a completely vegan dish. Your blood sugar will thank you too.
Chorizo Oil
Last but not least, Jon guided us through their infamous chorizo oil. Made with fresh garlic, cumin seeds, paprika, turmeric, jalapeno and olive oil, this oil comes in a liquid golden form. They use this oil to enhance the flavor of anything. It goes well with overcooked grilled fish, meat, chicken and vegetables. In their breakfast banh tet, it adds the perfect amount of umami. This oil is proof that flavorful dishes don’t have to be complicated.
Benefits of making Tacos from Scratch
While making homemade tortillas may seem daunting, it’s not as difficult as you might think. Especially when you choose these tapioca cakes. They are made with five simple ingredients and a bowl. Unlike most grocery store tortillas, they’re anti-inflammatory. Skip the giant, high-fat tortillas and opt for these instead. Your body and mind will thank you. A good medium for almost any cake, homemade tortillas are super versatile. Tacos can easily provide a good balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. Include them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Top them with scrambled eggs, chickpeas, lentils, baked sweet potatoes, or mushrooms. Creative!
Now it’s your turn! Read on for the recipe and make these delicious vegan chorizo tacos at home!
