These BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos offer the perfect balance of smokiness and tanginess. The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork, making them a wonderful vegan substitute. Topped with fresh cabbage and cilantro, they provide a satisfying crunch against the tender, flavorful filling. Each bite is packed with BBQ flavor, and the lime juice adds a refreshing citrus kick that elevates the whole dish.
Whether you’re looking for a new taco idea or a plant-based alternative to traditional pulled pork, these BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are a winner. They’re quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Serve them at your next taco night, and watch your guests enjoy the bold flavors and the innovative use of jackfruit.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 can (20 oz) young jackfruit in brine
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
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8 small corn or flour tortillas
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1 cup shredded cabbage (for topping)
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Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
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Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions:
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Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Cut off the core pieces and shred the jackfruit using your hands or a fork. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
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Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and stir well. Add smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Pour in the BBQ sauce, mixing it with the jackfruit. Reduce the heat and simmer for another 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the jackfruit absorbs all the flavors.
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While the jackfruit simmers, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
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Once the jackfruit mixture is ready, spoon it onto each tortilla.
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Top with shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 150 kcal per taco | Servings: 4 servings (2 tacos each)
What is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that is native to southwest India. It is the largest tree fruit in the world, and its green, spiky outer skin gives way to sweet, fleshy fruit inside. However, it’s the young, green jackfruit that has gained popularity in recent years as a meat substitute. When cooked, it has a texture similar to pulled pork or chicken, making it ideal for plant-based recipes. Jackfruit is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and several vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
The Health Benefits of Jackfruit
One of the primary reasons people love jackfruit is its health benefits. It’s naturally low in fat and high in fiber, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. In addition to being a good source of fiber, jackfruit is packed with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote skin health. The fruit also contains potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.
Unlike many meat substitutes, jackfruit has a neutral flavor that allows it to take on the taste of whatever seasoning or sauce is added to it. This versatility is what makes it such a great option for BBQ pulled jackfruit tacos, as the jackfruit can absorb the smoky BBQ sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Why Choose BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos?
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are not only a delicious meal, but they also offer several advantages over traditional tacos made with animal-based proteins. For one, they are a plant-based option, which means they are cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fats. This makes them a heart-healthy choice that is suitable for anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption or follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. Moreover, jackfruit is an environmentally friendly ingredient. It requires fewer resources to grow compared to animal farming, making it a more sustainable food choice.
Additionally, these tacos are quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends and family. They can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making them an ideal option for those with busy schedules. The recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to add or omit toppings according to your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to make for a complete meal. Consider serving them with a refreshing side salad, perhaps featuring avocado, tomato, and a zesty lime dressing. Roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, corn, or bell peppers, also pair beautifully with the smoky flavors of the jackfruit.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving your tacos with a side of rice and beans, or even homemade guacamole and salsa. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily tailor the meal to suit your guests’ tastes and dietary restrictions.
Variations of BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos
One of the best things about BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos is how versatile the recipe is. There are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:
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Spicy BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos: If you love spice, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. This will give the tacos a kick that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors.
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Caribbean-Inspired Jackfruit Tacos: For a tropical twist, try adding some fresh pineapple or mango salsa on top of your tacos. The sweetness of the fruit will complement the smoky BBQ jackfruit perfectly.
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Asian-Inspired Jackfruit Tacos: Swap out the BBQ sauce for hoisin or teriyaki sauce, and top with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a deliciously unique flavor profile.
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BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Nachos: For a fun twist, use the BBQ pulled jackfruit as a topping for nachos. Layer tortilla chips with the jackfruit, melted vegan cheese, and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
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BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Burritos: If you prefer burritos over tacos, simply swap the tortillas for larger burrito wraps and add rice, beans, and extra veggies to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos
The combination of smoky BBQ flavors, the meaty texture of the jackfruit, and the fresh toppings make these tacos a truly satisfying meal. Whether you are a vegan or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pulled pork, these tacos are a fantastic option. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive taco night with friends.
Moreover, they are highly customizable and easy to make, which means you can adjust them to suit your personal tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer your tacos spicy, tangy, or sweet, there’s a variation of BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos that will fit your preferences.
Conclusion
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pulled pork tacos. Made with young jackfruit, these tacos are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The versatility of jackfruit makes it an ideal base for a variety of different flavors, from smoky BBQ to tangy citrus or spicy heat.
These tacos are perfect for anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption or explore more plant-based meals. They are quick to make, customizable, and can be served with a variety of side dishes to make for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just curious to try something new, BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy this healthy and delicious dish!