Ultimate Homemade Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes: Your Favorite Fast Food, Reimagined
Get ready to revolutionize your mealtime with these incredible vegan crunchwrap supremes! They are not just a blast to prepare, but with their perfectly seasoned vegan crumbles and luscious, melty vegan cheese sauce, they are an absolute joy to devour. Forget the drive-thru; this homemade version brings all the flavor and fun right into your kitchen, elevated with fresh ingredients and a plant-based twist.
These homemade vegan crunchwrap supremes have quickly become a staple in my recipe rotation, and for good reason! They perfectly hit every mark: a symphony of flavors from aromatic spices, a rich and gooey vegan cheese sauce, and crisp, fresh vegetables. What’s even better is that you can whip up this mouth-watering dish in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. It’s fast Mexican food taken to an entirely new, delicious level – crunchy, utterly satisfying, and far superior to any fast-food alternative.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes
This recipe consistently ranks among my absolute favorites, and I’m confident it will soon earn a top spot in your culinary repertoire too. Here are just a few reasons why these vegan crunchwrap supremes are simply irresistible:
- Your Fast Food Fix, Elevated: Let’s be honest, most of us harbor a soft spot for the nostalgic flavors of fast-food giants like Taco Bell. These vegan crunchwrap supremes perfectly satisfy those specific cravings, but with the added satisfaction of being homemade. They capture the essence of the classic Taco Bell version, but with a delicious vegan twist, giving you complete control over every fresh ingredient.
- Freshness You Can Taste: Unlike typical fast food, these crunchwraps are crafted with wholesome, quality ingredients. We’re talking savory vegan meat crumbles, a rich and dairy-free cheese sauce, crisp shredded iceberg lettuce, and juicy diced tomatoes. The result is a vibrant, flavorful meal that rivals the original, with the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into every delicious bite.
- Impress Your Friends & Family: Picture this: you casually mention to your friends that you’ve mastered the art of making crunchwrap supremes at home. Better yet, share a photo of your golden-brown, perfectly folded creation! Watch as their eyes light up and their dinner invitations start rolling in. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to showcase how incredibly delicious and exciting plant-based eating can be.
- Highly Customizable for Every Palate: One of the greatest advantages of making your own crunchwrap supremes is the freedom to customize. Whether you want to amp up the spice, add extra veggies, or experiment with different sauces, this recipe provides a perfect canvas. It’s easy to adapt to various dietary preferences or simply to use whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand.
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes
Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step towards creating these fantastic vegan crunchwrap supremes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward components, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine. You’ll find the precise measurements for each ingredient in the comprehensive recipe card located at the very end of this article.
- Flour Tortillas – It’s crucial to select large, “burrito size” flour tortillas. These provide the necessary surface area to perfectly encase all the delicious fillings and fold neatly without tearing.
- Tostada Shells – These crispy corn tortillas are key to achieving that signature crunchwrap texture and name! If you can’t find them, don’t worry, we have a great hack in the “Tips for Success” section.
- Vegan Meat Crumbles – Pre-cooked vegan meat crumbles are ideal for convenience. Many excellent brands are available, offering a texture and savoriness that perfectly mimics ground beef. Just ensure they are fully cooked according to package directions before you begin assembling.
- Water – Used to help hydrate and distribute the taco seasoning evenly through the vegan crumbles, creating a rich, flavorful base.
- Taco Seasoning – This spice blend is the heart of our Mexican-inspired flavors. It typically includes a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Vegan Cheese Sauce – A creamy, dreamy vegan cheese sauce is non-negotiable for that gooey, melty layer. You can use a high-quality store-bought version or try my favorite recipe here for an extra special touch.
- Lettuce – Shredded iceberg lettuce is traditionally used for its crispness and refreshing crunch, which beautifully contrasts with the warm fillings.
- Tomatoes – Fresh, ripe tomatoes, finely diced, add a burst of juicy flavor and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- Vegan Sour Cream – A dollop of cool, tangy vegan sour cream provides a creamy counterpoint and enhances the overall texture and taste profile of the crunchwrap.
Demystifying Taco Seasoning
Taco seasoning is a magical blend of spices that instantly transports your taste buds to a fiesta! It’s readily available in the spice aisle of any grocery store, typically in small packets or jars. While specific ingredient ratios vary by brand, most taco seasonings feature a delicious combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. This versatile blend delivers a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor with a mild kick. If you prefer to customize your spice level or happen to be out of a store-bought blend, making your own taco seasoning at home is incredibly easy with common pantry spices.
Crafting Your Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these fun and flavorful vegan crunchwrap supremes is a simple process. Follow these detailed steps to assemble your very own fast-food masterpiece:
- Prepare the Seasoned Vegan Crumbles. Begin by adding your pre-cooked vegan meat crumbles, a measured amount of water, and the taco seasoning blend to a large skillet. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture frequently as it cooks, allowing the crumbles to absorb the rich flavors of the seasoning. Continue cooking until all the water has completely evaporated, leaving behind perfectly seasoned, savory crumbles.
- Begin the Assembly. Lay one large burrito-sized flour tortilla flat on a clean surface or a plate. Take approximately ¼ of the seasoned vegan meat mixture and gently spread it into a circular shape in the center of the tortilla. Aim for a circle that is roughly the same diameter as your tostada shells.
- Layer with Vegan Cheese. Generously drizzle a portion of your warm, gooey vegan cheese sauce directly over the seasoned vegan meat crumbles. This layer is crucial for that signature rich and creamy texture.
- Introduce the Tostada Crunch. Carefully place one tostada shell directly on top of the vegan cheese sauce layer. This is where the “crunch” in crunchwrap supreme comes from!
- Add a Creamy Layer. Spread a dollop of vegan sour cream evenly over the surface of the tostada shell. This adds a wonderful tang and creaminess that complements the savory fillings.
- Crown with Fresh Veggies. Evenly layer the shredded iceberg lettuce over the vegan sour cream. Then, scatter the diced tomatoes on top of the lettuce. These fresh additions provide essential texture, color, and a refreshing bite.
- Master the Fold. This step requires a bit of finesse. Carefully gather the edges of the large flour tortilla and fold them inward towards the center, overlapping them to completely enclose all the fillings. The goal is to create a neat, hexagonal or octagonal packet. If you find a small gap or the tortilla doesn’t quite meet, don’t worry! You can tear a small piece off an extra flour tortilla and use it to patch any exposed filling before folding over the last section.
- Seal for Golden Perfection. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the folded crunchwrap into the skillet, ensuring the folded seams are facing down. Cook for approximately 2 minutes, or until the bottom is beautifully golden brown and sealed. Then, gently flip the crunchwrap over and cook the other side for another 2 minutes, achieving that desirable crisp exterior. Serve your homemade vegan crunchwrap supremes immediately for the ultimate fresh and crunchy experience!
Pro Tips for Perfectly Crispy Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes
Achieving restaurant-quality vegan crunchwrap supremes at home is easier than you think with these expert tricks and tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your delicious creations:
- Warm Your Tortillas First: Before you even start assembling, take a moment to briefly warm your flour tortillas. You can do this quickly in a dry skillet over low heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds. Warm tortillas become much more pliable and elastic, significantly reducing the chance of tearing when you fold them around the generous fillings.
- Keep Your Hands Lightly Damp: When it comes time to fold the crunchwrap, a little moisture on your hands can be a game-changer. Lightly dampen your hands with water. This subtle hydration will prevent the dry tortilla from sticking to your fingers and allow you to manipulate it more easily, creating a tighter and more secure wrap.
- No Tostadas? No Problem! If you can’t find pre-made tostada shells at your grocery store, don’t let that stop you! Simply take a handful of sturdy tortilla chips (the flatter, larger ones work best) and arrange them in a single layer to form a circle roughly the size of a tostada. This clever substitute will still deliver that essential crunch and structural integrity to your crunchwrap.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up every crunchwrap with an abundance of fillings, resist the urge to overstuff them. An overly full crunchwrap will be difficult to fold neatly and prone to tearing, leading to messy leaks during cooking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of each layer.
- Patience During Toasting: The final toasting step is crucial for both sealing the crunchwrap and achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Don’t rush this process. Medium heat ensures even cooking without burning, and two minutes per side usually results in perfect browning and a satisfying crunch.
Exciting Variations to Customize Your Crunchwrap Supremes
One of the best things about making homemade vegan crunchwrap supremes is the endless possibility for customization. Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor them to your personal preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Here are some fantastic ways to switch up your next batch:
- Explore Alternative Protein Fillings. While vegan meat crumbles are fantastic, there’s a whole world of plant-based options to explore! If you’re out of crumbles or simply craving something different, consider replacing them with well-seasoned black beans, creamy refried beans, smoky roasted cauliflower florets, or even crispy roasted potatoes. Lentil taco meat is another excellent, protein-rich alternative that offers a satisfying texture.
- Experiment with Vegan Cheese. Our rich vegan cheese sauce is undeniably delicious, but if you’re a fan of shredded cheese, feel free to use it! You can swap the sauce for your favorite shredded vegan cheddar or Mexican blend. For an extra indulgent crunchwrap, why not use both? Place a layer of shredded vegan cheese directly underneath the vegan meat crumbles so it melts beautifully as the crunchwrap toasts, then add a drizzle of cheese sauce over the tostada for maximum gooeyness.
- Pile on the Toppings! These vegan crunchwrap supremes are fantastic as they are, but adding extra toppings can take them from great to extraordinary. When you’re layering on the vegan sour cream, lettuce, and tomatoes, seize the opportunity to incorporate other beloved Mexican-inspired ingredients. Think fresh salsa, a fiery hot sauce, creamy guacamole, vibrant cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or tangy pickled jalapeños for an extra kick. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy depth.
- Spice It Up: For those who love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the vegan meat crumble mixture as it cooks. You could also include finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers for a more intense flavor.
- Make it a Breakfast Crunchwrap: Transform this recipe into a delicious breakfast option! Replace the vegan meat crumbles with scrambled tofu or seasoned breakfast potatoes, and add some sautéed bell peppers and onions. A dash of hot sauce and a sprinkle of vegan bacon bits would complete this morning delight.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes
While these vegan crunchwrap supremes are undeniably best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, sometimes you might have leftovers or want to plan ahead. Here’s how to best handle storage and reheating, along with some important considerations:
- Refrigeration: You can store any leftover crunchwraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s important to note that this recipe doesn’t store particularly well. The crispy corn tostada will inevitably become soggy, and the flour tortilla may turn a bit mushy, losing its delightful texture. For the absolute best experience, I highly recommend only making as many vegan crunchwrap supremes as you intend to serve and eat immediately.
- Freezing: While not ideal for maintaining optimal texture, if you must freeze these crunchwrap supremes, they will last in an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in foil and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, remove any plastic wrap, then wrap the crunchwrap loosely in aluminum foil. Cook it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and the exterior begins to crisp up again.
- Prepping Components Ahead: To make mealtime even faster, you can prepare some of the components in advance. Cook and season the vegan meat crumbles and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also prepare your vegan cheese sauce and shred your lettuce and dice your tomatoes ahead of time. This way, assembly becomes a quick and simple process when you’re ready to eat!
Other Must-Try Mexican-Inspired Vegan Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the vibrant flavors and fun of making these vegan crunchwrap supremes, then you’re in for a treat! Explore some of my other favorite Mexican-inspired vegan recipes that are equally delicious and satisfying:
- Effortless 30-Minute Vegan Portobello Fajitas
- The Ultimate Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
- Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Burrito Bowls
- Quick & Easy 30-Minute Quinoa Enchilada Skillet
- The Best Vegan Tacos: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
Vegan Crunchwrap Supremes
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Ingredients
- 5 10-inch burrito flour tortillas
- 4 tostada shells
- 10 ounces vegan meat crumbles, cooked according to the package
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup Vegan Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup vegan sour cream
Instructions
- Add the cooked vegan crumbles, water and taco seasoning to a large skillet. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the water has cooked away.
- Place a flour tortilla on a plate.
- Top tortilla with about 1⁄4 of the taco crumble mixture. Spread it into a circle about the size of the tostada shell.
- Drizzle vegan nacho cheese over the crumbles.
- Add the tostada shell.
- Top with vegan sour cream, lettuce and tomato.
- With damp hands, crease and fold the tortilla over on itself to wrap it around the filling. If you have too much filling and there is a gap, use a portion of the extra flour tortilla to fill in the space.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the crunchwrap to the pan with the folded side down. Cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes then flip over and cook the bottom for another 2 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For the cheese sauce, I like to use this recipe.
- To make it easier to work with the tortillas, heat them up before using them, and keep your hands damp when folding them.
- If you can’t find tostadas, use tortilla chips instead, placing them in a circle.
- I don’t recommend storing this recipe, but if you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days, or in the freezer for 3 months.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.