If Looking to elevate your taco night with a plant-based twist? This Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas recipe will transform your meals with its savory, spiced jackfruit that’s crisped up to perfection.
Inspired by traditional carnitas but made with tender jackfruit, this dish delivers the same satisfying crunch and depth of flavor you’d expect from classic pork carnitas. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal while keeping things completely vegan!
This recipe pairs wonderfully with Guacamole, which adds a creamy, rich contrast to the crispy jackfruit. And for an extra burst of freshness, serve it with Grilled Vegetables, which bring a smoky, charred flavor that complements the spiced jackfruit beautifully.
Each bite of these carnitas is packed with the smoky richness of cumin, paprika, and chili powder, while the caramelized edges add a delightful crunch. It’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or even a hearty salad topping.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- The jackfruit gets perfectly crisped up, providing a satisfying texture and flavor.
- The blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika delivers a deep, smoky flavor.
- Great for tacos, burritos, or even as a salad topping.
Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out! It’s a game-changer for any vegan meal and pairs perfectly with those delicious sides.
Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas Recipe
Equipment
- Kitchen towel
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Large sauté pan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1/2 a red onion diced (one cup) or one fat shallot
- 4 garlic cloves rough chopped
- 1/2 a jalapeno finely diced (add more or less depending on spice preference- this is medium spicy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Braggs liquid amino acid
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin whole seeds are nice too
- 1 teaspoon dry Mexican Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika more for smokier
- 1 /2 teaspoon sugar to help caramelize
Instructions
- Drain and thinly slice the jackfruit, wring it out in a kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Add the jackfruit and soy sauce, cook on low heat for 3-5 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Once dry, add salt, sugar, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir-fry with the remaining oil until jackfruit caramelizes and deepens in color.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Optionally, add cayenne or lime juice.
- Use as filling for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or bowls.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 169 kcal |
| Fat | 7.8g |
| Sugar | 18.2mg |
| Sodium | 566.3mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25.5g |
| Protein | 2.8g |
Why Add Jackfruit in Your Meal?
- Nutrient-Rich: Jackfruit is full of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system and helps produce collagen. It also provides vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are important for overall health.
- High in Fiber: Jackfruit is rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full. A diet high in fiber supports a healthy gut and can help prevent constipation.
- Low in Calories: If you’re watching your calories, jackfruit is a smart choice. It’s lower in calories compared to many other fruits, making it a satisfying addition to your meals without adding too many calories.
- Natural Antioxidants: Jackfruit contains antioxidants like flavonoids and phytonutrients that help combat harmful free radicals in your body. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
- Potential Anti-Cancer Properties: Some studies suggest that the compounds in jackfruit, such as phytonutrients and antioxidants, might have anti-cancer effects. While more research is needed, adding jackfruit to your diet can be beneficial for overall health.
