Pulled Jackfruit Tacos

Name: Pulled Jackfruit Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Sliced avocado, for topping; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking | Raw & Green

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of these Pulled Jackfruit Tacos! The way the jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled meat is simply genius. I remember the first time I tried making them; I was blown away by how juicy and flavorful they turned out. With the right spices and toppings, they become an irresistible treat. Plus, they're a great way to introduce plant-based meals into my diet while still satisfying my cravings for classic tacos. Give them a try for your next meal; you won't be disappointed!

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-08T17:21:27.931Z

When I first discovered jackfruit, I was intrigued by its versatility. The first time I made Pulled Jackfruit Tacos, I was amazed at how simple it was to transform this fruit into a delicious and satisfying dish. I seasoned it with a blend of spices that really brought out its natural sweetness, making it a fantastic alternative to meat.

One tip I learned during my cooking adventures is to allow the jackfruit to simmer in the spices for a while. This helps to infuse all those flavors, resulting in a rich and savory filling that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro. Trust me, you’ll love every bite!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Savory pulled jackfruit that mimics traditional meat textures
A colorful array of toppings to customize each taco
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight meal

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is an integral part of this recipe, offering a unique texture that closely resembles pulled meat. When preparing young green jackfruit, it’s essential to pick the right product—look for cans labeled as 'young green jackfruit' rather than 'ripe' jackfruit. The unripe version has a firmer texture and will hold up better during cooking. Its subtle flavor acts like a sponge, absorbing the spices you add, making it a versatile base for various dishes beyond tacos.

When breaking apart the jackfruit, aim for a shredded texture by tearing it with a fork or your hands. This mimics pulled meat, giving your tacos a satisfying bite. Some cooks prefer to chop the jackfruit into smaller pieces for a finer texture, but I recommend leaving it a bit chunkier to enhance the mouthfeel. It’s also a great plant-based protein alternative that's high in fiber, making these tacos a wholesome option.

Layering Flavor with Seasoning

The spices used in this taco recipe are crucial for building flavor. Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky depth that complements the jackfruit beautifully, while cumin and chili powder bring warmth and earthiness. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels to fit your heat tolerance; adding more chili powder will ramp up the heat. I often taste the mixture as it cooks and tweak the seasonings as necessary, so you can cater the flavors to your liking.

It's important to let the jackfruit absorb the seasonings thoroughly by simmering it covered for about 20 minutes. This not only infuses the jackfruit with flavor but also allows the texture to soften and become more meaty. Remember to stir occasionally; you want to create a cohesive mixture where every bite is packed with flavor. If the jackfruit starts to dry out, a splash of vegetable broth can help maintain moisture.

Taco Assembly Tips

When assembling your tacos, the order of ingredients can affect the overall enjoyment of each bite. Start with the jackfruit mixture as the base, then add your toppings. I recommend placing the sliced avocado and fresh cilantro on top, followed by a generous squeeze of lime juice. The acidity from the lime balances the richness of the avocado and enhances the aromatic qualities of the cilantro, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a pico de gallo or a drizzle of vegan sour cream over the top. This not only adds moisture but also visual appeal. Make sure to warm your corn tortillas effectively; a dry tortilla will crack, while a pliable one will hold everything together perfectly. Keep them warm in a clean kitchen towel as you prepare each taco to enhance their flexibility and prevent cracking.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Sliced avocado, for topping
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add the rinsed jackfruit, breaking it apart with a fork or your hands.

Season the Mixture

Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the jackfruit. Stir to combine thoroughly, allowing the spices to coat the jackfruit evenly.

Cook the Jackfruit

Cover the pan and let the jackfruit simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the jackfruit absorb all the flavors from the spices.

Warm the Tortillas

In a separate skillet, warm the corn tortillas one at a time over medium heat until they are pliable. This should take about 30 seconds on each side.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with the seasoned jackfruit mixture. Top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos warm with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, radishes, or even a spicy salsa for an extra kick!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, the jackfruit mixture stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheating is simple; just place it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if it seems dry. This will help bring back the moisture and prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can cook unevenly and alter the texture.

For longer-term storage, the jackfruit mixture can be frozen for up to three months. When freezing, label your container with the date for easy tracking. To reheat from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat in a skillet. This method ensures the remnants from the spices remain intact and flavorful, preserving that delicious taste you loved when first cooked.

Customizing Your Tacos

These Pulled Jackfruit Tacos are incredibly versatile, inviting a range of toppings and variations. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding roasted corn or black beans for extra texture and protein. For a spicy kick, consider pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you have different dietary needs, swapping out the corn tortillas for gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps is an easy fix that maintains the integrity of this dish.

Another fun twist is to mix up the spices used with the jackfruit. Experimenting with different seasoning blends—such as adding taco seasoning or even a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce—can create exciting new flavor profiles. This adaptability not only keeps the recipe fresh with each attempt, but also allows you to cater to your family's preferences, ensuring everyone finds joy in these tacos.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is simple and manageable. Each can of jackfruit serves about 2-3 people when making tacos, so you can easily adjust based on your guest list. For larger gatherings, I recommend making batches in advance to avoid time-consuming preparations on the day of serving. Just increase the amount of spices proportionally and make sure your pan is large enough to accommodate everything without overcrowding.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can halve the recipe without losing flavor. Just store any unused jackfruit mixture for future meals or consider repurposing it in burrito bowls, salads, or wraps. The versatility of this recipe makes it not only suitable for various servings but also a fun project for experimenting with portion sizes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh jackfruit, but it requires more preparation, including peeling and cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas instead of corn tortillas.

→ What other toppings do you recommend?

Great toppings include pickled onions, cabbage slaw, or even a vegan sour cream!