Jackfruit Carnitas Recipe

Give your tacos something to be happy about! These Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas are full of flavor and made with strictly plants and spices!  A healthy, delicious vegan filling for tacos, enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas and Burrito bowls!  Perfect for Sunday meal prep! Video.

Many of you who come to the blog are requesting more plant-based recipes. Whether you are vegan or just trying to introduce more plants into your daily life – here is a simple fun recipe to try using canned jackfruit that you’ll be able to use in a variety of dishes throughout the busy work week!

Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas can be made ahead then used in like you would with taco meat- serve with tortillas, guacamole, and salsa, use in quesadillas, these delicious jackfruit tacos, enchiladas or burrito bowls or Mexican breakfast bowls.  And I’ve found this to be especially handy during the busy work week. Meal prep a batch on Sunday and you’ll find a hundred ways to use it during the week.

The best part? Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas are totally vegan (and also bean-free!), only take 20 mins to make (if that) and can keep up to 4 days in the fridge!

Watch How to make Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas! | 60-sec video 

Why you’ll love Jackfruit carnitas!

1. Vegan-friendly: Jackfruit Carnitas are a delicious vegan option for those who are looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. They are completely free of animal products, making them a compassionate choice.
2. Texture and flavor: Jackfruit has a unique texture that is reminiscent of pulled pork or shredded chicken when cooked. It has a slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with the spices and seasonings used in the recipe.
3. Versatility: Jackfruit Carnitas can be used in a variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, and bowls.
4. Easy to make: Making Jackfruit Carnitas is a straightforward process that takes only 20 minutes or less. It’s a quick and convenient meal option, especially when you meal prep a batch on Sunday to use throughout the week.
5. Healthy: Jackfruit is high in fiber, low in calories, and gluten-free, making it a nutritious choice. By opting for Jackfruit Carnitas instead of traditional meat-filled dishes, you can enjoy a lighter and healthier meal without compromising on taste.

Ingredients in Jackfruit carnitas

Ingredient Notes

• Canned Jackfruit– young green jackfruit packed in WATER, not syrup
• Red onion– or shallot.
• Garlic cloves– add a much-needed savory taste to the jackfruit.
• Jalapeno– add more or less depending on spice preference.
• Cumin– ground or whole seeds are nice too for a warm earthy flavor common in Mexican cuisine.
• Mexican Oregano– dried oregano is used to enhance Mexican-inspired flavors in the carnitas.
• Smoked paprika– adjust to taste, more for smokier. Feel free to use chipotle or the adobo sauce from the can.
• Salt and pepper
• Sugar– just a bit to help caramelize and crisp up the edges.

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.     

How to make Jackfruit Carnitas

Step One– Make sure to strain the brine from the jackfruit and cut it into thin smaller pieces, cutting through the tougher core.

Step Two– Wring out all the water using a kitchen towel. This is KEY!!! You want it as dry as possible to get it crispy! Give it a good wring and unwrap. (Try this with other recipes too, wringing it out gives it a better texture.)

Step Three– Saute onion, garlic, and jalapenos in a large skillet until fragrant and golden. Add the jackfruit shreds and salt and spice blend. Cook until tender, crispy and deep in color. Squeeze with lime juice.

Use the Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and bowls or refrigerate for the leftover jackfruit for the workweek to come.

5 Reasons To Add Jackfruit To Your Diet

1. Nutrient-rich: Jackfruit is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production. It also contains vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, which are important for overall health.
2. High in fiber: Jackfruit is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. A diet rich in fiber can also promote healthy gut function and help prevent constipation.
3. Low in calories: If you’re watching your calorie intake, jackfruit is a great choice. It is relatively low in calories compared to other fruits and can be a satisfying addition to your meals without adding excessive calories.
4. Natural antioxidants: Jackfruit contains antioxidants like flavonoids and phytonutrients that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a vital role in reducing inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
5. May have anti-cancer properties: Some studies suggest that certain compounds found in jackfruit, such as phytonutrients and antioxidants, may have anti-cancer properties. While more research is needed, including jackfruit in a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.

Ways to serve Jackfruit Carnitas!

Add to tacos, soups, and bowls! Tuck into enchiladas, quesadillas, and burritos!

Jackfruit Tacos (Vegan!)

Vegan Chili Verde with Jackfruit

Vegan Bulgogi Bowl

Vegan Burrito Bowl w/ Creamy (Vegan) Cilantro Sauce

Serve with:

• Cuban Black Beans
• How to Make Tortillas (Video)
• Mexican Rice with Sheet-Pan Veggies
• Mole Black Beans
• Cauliflower Tacos with Mole Sauce (Vegan!)

I’m so excited for you try the jackfruit carnitas… and also very curious about what you will think about it!

Hope you are having a fabulous week.

xoxo

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