Vegan Carnitas with Mushrooms

Recipe by Daily Disher

Vegan Carnitas with Mushrooms transforms meaty mushrooms with smoky paprika, cumin, and citrus juices to create a plant-based version of the beloved Mexican classic.

Course: Main

Cuisine: Mexican

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

Prep time

15 minutes

Cooking time

30 minutes

Calories

200 kcal

45 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb mushrooms

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lime juice

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp oregano

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 cup vegetable broth

¼ cup orange juice

2 cloves garlic

Directions

Clean and slice the mushrooms into thick pieces, approximately half an inch wide, to resemble shredded pork texture.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add sliced mushrooms, stirring occasionally till browned.

Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Mix in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper, making sure mushrooms are well coated with spices.

Pour in the vegetable broth and orange juice, bringing it to a simmer. Let it cook until most liquid evaporates.

Add lime juice and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together before serving the carnitas.

Nutrition Facts

Total number of serves:

4 servings

Calories:

200kcal

Cholesterol:

0mg

Sodium:

620mg

Potassium:

400mg

Sugar:

Protein:

Calcium:

60mg

Iron:

2mg

These Vegan Carnitas with Mushrooms prove that plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing bold, satisfying flavors. Thick-sliced mushrooms develop a meaty texture as they brown and caramelize, then get infused with warm spices like smoky paprika and earthy cumin that capture the essence of traditional carnitas. The combination of orange and lime juice adds the signature citrus brightness that makes carnitas so irresistible, while vegetable broth helps concentrate all those incredible flavors into every bite.

If you’re drawn to these vibrant Mexican flavors, you’ll absolutely love our Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with their similar bold, authentic seasonings. For another plant-based favorite with big flavors, try the Vegan Spicy Potato Kale Bowls that deliver the same satisfying, nutrient-packed appeal.

Can’t get enough of great flavors? Check out these popular recipes that readers love making again and again.

For Mexican-inspired favorites, our Tamale Casserole and Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole bring that same bold, warming spice to your dinner table. When you’re craving plant-based options, the Jamaican Vegan Rasta Pasta and Crispy Baked Korean Tofu Bowls deliver satisfying meals packed with vibrant flavors. Need quick weeknight solutions? Our Korean BBQ Pork and Beijing Beef offer restaurant-style taste at home.

Browse our full collection for more kitchen inspiration that’ll have your family asking for seconds.