Vegan Carnitas With Mushrooms (Printable Version)

Tender oyster mushrooms shredded and seasoned with smoky spices create a satisfying Mexican-inspired filling.

# Ingredient List:

→ Mushrooms

01 - 1.1 lbs oyster mushrooms or king oyster mushrooms
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

→ Spices & Seasonings

06 - 1 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 - 1 tsp dried oregano
09 - 0.5 tsp ground coriander
10 - 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
11 - 0.5 tsp chili powder
12 - 0.5 tsp salt

→ Liquids

13 - 0.25 cup orange juice
14 - 2 tbsp lime juice
15 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
16 - 1 tsp agave nectar or maple syrup

→ To Serve

17 - Warm corn tortillas
18 - Chopped cilantro
19 - Diced red onion
20 - Lime wedges
21 - Avocado slices

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 410°F.
02 - Clean and shred mushrooms using hands or fork to create pulled texture.
03 - Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
04 - Add garlic and jalapeño. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Stir in shredded mushrooms. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and moisture begins to evaporate.
06 - Sprinkle in all spices, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook 2 minutes to toast spices.
07 - Pour in orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, and agave nectar. Mix to coat mushrooms evenly.
08 - Transfer mushroom mixture to parchment-lined baking sheet.
09 - Spread evenly and bake 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are crispy and mushrooms are golden brown.
10 - Serve hot with warm tortillas and desired toppings.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The shredded mushroom texture mimics traditional carnitas so perfectly even skeptics go back for seconds
  • Everything cooks in one skillet then gets finished under high heat for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup
02 -
  • Don't skip the roasting step because those crispy edges are what transform this from good to unforgettable
  • Let the mushrooms brown in the skillet before adding liquids or they'll steam instead of developing that deep caramelized flavor
03 -
  • The mushroom mixture keeps in the refrigerator for up to four days and actually develops more flavor as it sits
  • Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet with a tiny splash of water to refresh the texture without drying them out

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