Name: Vegan Jackfruit Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 can (20-ounce) jackfruit in brine or water (use more cans if needed) (use more cans if needed); 2 tbsp grapeseed oil ( use water if avoiding oil); 1/2 large ½ large onion (thinly sliced); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger (grated or minced); 1 jalapeño seeded and minced (omit if avoiding heat); 2 tbsp piri piri seasoning; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 3 tbsp lime juice; 2/3 cup water (add more if needed); 1 tbsp tamari (or low sodium soy sauce); lime wedges; purple cabbage; pumpkin seeds; Tomato Bliss Roasted Tomato Salsa Verde (I love supporting local brands that use local and good ingredients)

These vegan jackfruit tacos with purple cabbage are filled with smokey, spicy, and sweet flavors. Whether you are making jackfruit in an instant pot or stovetop you will love this recipe for sure.

jackfruit tacos on tortilla with cilantro and purple cabbage

Where to buy jackfruit

I always purchase my canned jackfruit from Trader Joe’s. Look for the one that says “jackfruit in brine”. I have yet to find canned jackfruit from Wholefoods. However, if you see canned jackfruit at Wholefoods then please drop me a comment below. Or, simply, google “jackfruit near me” and see what comes up. Good luck!

How to make vegan jackfruit tacos

In a large bowl, rinse and drain the jackfruit. The jackfruit pieces will be chunky or in a triangular form. Cut off the core “center” section of the jackfruit that’s tougher in texture and separate it from the rest of the jackfruit. Next, you can shred and/or chop them into smaller pieces. Shredding the jackfruit will help you to mimic the appearance of a “meat-like” texture. Rinse the jackfruit again and dry.

Add oil to a large skillet and turn on medium-high. Once the oil is hot add your onions, garlic, and sauté. After your aromatics turn translucent add the jackfruit. Cover with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, tamari, water, and lime juice. Reduce the heat, cover with a lid, and cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the pot. Adjust seasonings as needed and turn up the heat to get some extra color for an additional 2-3 minutes. Heat your tortillas and top with salsa, purple cabbage, and lime wedges. Voila! Your vegan jackfruit tacos are ready to eat! Alternatively, you can use this recipe to make a jackfruit taco bowl.

vegan jackfruit in sauce pan with cilantro

What does Jackfruit meat taste like

Jackfruit, as is, does not taste like meat. In my opinion, jackfruit tastes sweet. However, it does take on a meat-like taste with spices and flavors. Jackfruit can be used to make a few of the following: jackfruit chicken tacos, jackfruit pulled pork tacos, and bbq jackfruit tacos. Adjust your spices and flavors as needed.

Is Jackfruit a good source of protein

Jackfruit is a great source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. However, it only has about 2.84 grams of protein. According to Vox.com, “Only 5 percent of people in the US meet the Institute of Medicine’s recommended daily target of 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men.” Therefore, unless you are protein deficient I wouldn’t be too concerned about the lack of protein in jackfruit.