I’m always looking to recreate animal meats with a plant based substitute. This one has almost an exact texture and taste replacement. Jackfruit Carnitas for Tacos! I had never even heard of Jackfruit until a few years ago and it probably took me over a year to actually jump on the wagon and try it for myself. It’s probably one of my favorite meat replacement recipes.
If you’re wondering what Jackfruit actually is, it was born on the largest fruit tree in the world. It is a species of tree in the fig, mulberry, and breadfruit family native to South India. Jackfruit is high in magnesium, vitamin B6 and antioxidants.
Some Health Benefits of Jackfruit are:
– Strengthens the immune system
– Maintains a healthy thyroid
– Lowers high blood pressure
– Maintains healthy eyes and skin
– Protects against Cancer
– Aids in healthy digestion
– Strengthens the bones
– Controls Asthma
– Prevents Anemia
– Boosts Energy
When using Jackfruit I always end up buying it in a can from Trader Joe’s. I have never purchased it fresh from a stand or farmers market. To be honest I am not sure where I could buy it locally in town.
Start by adding coconut oil, onion, garlic, & spice blend to a large skillet on medium-high heat. Let the shallot & garlic combine & darken from the spices.
Next, add in the jackfruit and maple syrup, stir occasionally to break up the jackfruit.
It’s finished when the jackfruit darkens & dries out. It will start to look like shredded “meat”.
Add to the tortilla or taco shell and top it with your choice of additional toppings.

Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Servings |
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- 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil
- 1 Shallot minced
- 2 tablespoons Garlic minced
- Spice Blend
- 20 ounce can of Jackfruit drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
- 8 Tortillas
- 1 teaspoon Liquid Aminos
- 1 teaspoon Lime freshly juiced
- 2 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- pinch Cayenne Pepper
- pinch Ground Cinnamon
Ingredients
For The Tacos:
Spice Blend
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- Start by adding coconut oil, onion, garlic, & spice blend to a large skillet on medium-high heat. Let the shallot & garlic combine & darken from the spices.
- Next, add in the jackfruit and maple syrup, stir occasionally to break up the jackfruit.
- It's finished when the jackfruit darkens & dries out. It will start to look like shredded "meat".
- Add to tortilla or taco shell & top with choice of toppings.
Recipe adapted from CleanGreenSimple.com
Did you attempt this recipe? Please let me know how you liked it {or not} by leaving a comment below or sharing a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #mamawentveganrecipes or @mamawentvegan. I love to hear your feedback and see your creations!
Thank you!