Discover the wonders of plant-based cooking with these incredible chipotle-spiced jackfruit tacos. Ideal for vegans and curious carnivores alike, this recipe transforms the humble jackfruit into a mouthwatering, meat-like filling that rivals its pork counterpart.
When you’re craving a meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction, these jackfruit tacos are the answer. With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious platter of tacos that combines the meaty texture of jackfruit and mushrooms with a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients for Jackfruit Tacos
- Onions:Â Sliced onions add a sweet and savory base for the jackfruit filling.
- Olive oil: The olive oil is used for sauteing the onions and mushrooms and adding richness to the dish.
- Mushrooms: Sliced portobello mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami flavor to the jackfruit tacos.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Two to four peppers provide a smoky, spicy flavor to the sauce. Here are lots of other ways to use chipotle peppers in adobo.
- Spices:Â Chili powder, cumin, oregano, granulated garlic and garlic powder create a robust and complex flavor profile to the sauce.
- Kosher salt: A couple teaspoons of kosher salt enhance all the flavors in the dish.
- Jackfruit:Â Shredded canned jackfruit is the star ingredient of this recipe, providing a tender, meat-like texture to the tacos.
- Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds or pepitas add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Here’s how to perfectly roast pumpkin seeds.
- Nutritional yeast: A bit of nutritional yeast imparts a cheesy flavor to the filling.
- Corn tortillas:Â Warmed corn tortillas serve as the base for these jackfruit tacos.
- Optional toppings: Top your tacos with lime wedges, sliced cabbage, salsa, cilantro leaves and avocado for added freshness and texture.
Directions
Step 1: Saute the onions
In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions in olive oil over medium-low heat until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the mushrooms
Add the sliced portobello mushrooms to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the liquid from the mushrooms evaporates and they become tender.
Editor’s Tip: Cook the mushrooms in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan and ensure the mushrooms brown rather than steam.
Step 3: Prepare the sauce
In a blender, combine the chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, oregano, granulated garlic, garlic powder, salt and water. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: Cook the jackfruit
Add the shredded jackfruit and the prepared sauce to the skillet with the onion and mushrooms. Cook until the sauce darkens in color and starts to caramelize onto the jackfruit, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Add the final ingredients
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds and nutritional yeast. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the jackfruit mixture to become rich and savory.
Step 6: Assemble the tacos
Warm the corn tortillas and fill them with the jackfruit mixture. Finish the tacos with optional toppings such as lime wedges, sliced cabbage, salsa, cilantro leaves and avocado, as desired.
Jackfruit Taco Variations
- Add a barbecue twist: Swap out the chipotle sauce for your favorite classic barbecue sauce to create a barbecue version of these jackfruit tacos.
- Add a tropical spin: Mix in some diced pineapple or mango with the jackfruit for a sweet and savory combination.
- Enhance with nuts: Add crushed cashews or almonds for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Add some greens:Â Incorporate sauteed kale or spinach into the jackfruit mixture for added nutrition and texture.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of vegan sour cream or cashew cream on top of the tacos before serving.
How to Store Jackfruit Tacos
Store any leftover jackfruit mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days. Keep the tortillas and toppings separate. When ready to eat, gently reheat the jackfruit filling in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
How long do jackfruit tacos last?
Jackfruit tacos can last for three to four days in the refrigerator, or you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. To use frozen leftovers, remove the jackfruit tacos from the freezer the night before and let them thaw overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments.
Can you freeze jackfruit tacos?
Yes, you can freeze the jackfruit mixture. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Store it in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling the tacos.
Jackfruit Taco Tips
How do you get the brine taste out of jackfruit?
To remove the brine taste from canned jackfruit, rinse it thoroughly under cold water. You can also boil the jackfruit in water for several minutes. Drain and repeat the boiling process if necessary before using it in this jackfruit tacos recipe.
What other dishes can you make with canned jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a great vegetarian substitute for chopped or ground meat. You can use it in tacos, burritos, omelets or hearty curries and stir-fries.
Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
While canned jackfruit is more convenient, you can use fresh jackfruit if it’s readily available. Choose young, green jackfruit and remove the core and seeds before cooking. Keep in mind that fresh jackfruit may require longer cooking time to achieve the desired texture for this jackfruit taco recipe.
