Easy Vegetarian Carnitas Tacos
Carnitas is one of Mexico’s most signature and beloved dishes. Carnitas translated means ‘little meats’ referring to the bite-sized shape of the meat traditionally used in this recipe. With our simple 3 steps, now you can easily make a deliciously mild and tangy Carnitas style taco filling at home that tastes like you have spent hours in the kitchen.
Flavour Notes: Orange and lime give the sauce its signature tangy flavour and Ancho chillies bring mild heat.
-
Prep time
2 minutes
-
Cook time
15 minutes
-
Total time
17 minutes
-
Ideal for
-
Make it
-
Serves
2 - 3
Found in the
Mexican Section
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 400 grams of halloumi cut into bite size pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 bunch of coriander, finely chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How to make it
- Heat up a pan over high heat with a drizzle of vegetable oil.
- When hot, add the halloumi, stir and fry for 3 minutes.
- Add the spice blend, cook for another 2 minutes to release the aromatics.
- Add the smaller base flavour sachet and cook for a further 2 – 3 more minutes and stir
- Stir in the larger main sauce sachet, reduce the heat and cover with a lid for 7 minutes
- Warm the Gran Luchito Soft Tacos or Gran Luchito Corn Tortillas according to package directions.
- Fill each taco with the halloumi and garnish generously with chopped coriander and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.
Similar Recipes You Might Like to Try
Vegetarian Fajitas
FAQs
Is halloumi a good substitute for meat like pork in carnitas?
Yes!
Halloumi works well because:
- It holds its shape when grilled or fried (doesn’t completely melt) thanks to its high melting point.
- It has a firm, chewy texture and salty bite that gives good contrast in tacos.
What toppings or finishing touches suit it?
Classic taco toppings plus maybe a twist:
- Diced pineapple or mango for sweetness (traditional in some carnitas).
- Fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped onion (white or red).
- A salsa (verde or roja) or try our chipotle mayo recipe.
- Warm soft corn or flour tortillas.
If you want it to be extra crisp, you could include roasted or grilled pineapple alongside halloumi to mimic the caramelised bits.
Is this suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
For vegetarians: Yes (halloumi is cheese).
For vegans: You’d need a cheese substitute (vegan halloumi alternative) or something similar in texture (e.g., grilled tofu, tempeh) and adjust accordingly.
Subscribe now for a free copy of the Gran Luchito e-cookbook filled with delicious, authentic Mexican recipes and join our mailing list for all the latest recipes, news and blog updates.
