Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

These Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Tacos are a refreshing, plant-based twist on a classic favorite. By slow-simmering young green jackfruit in a smoky BBQ sauce, you achieve a tender, shredded texture that mimics pulled pork perfectly, all while keeping the meal light and vibrant in crisp lettuce cups.

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The star of the dish is complemented by a tangy, creamy slaw made from shredded green and purple cabbage. This adds a cooling crunch that balances the heat and smokiness of the jackfruit, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (400 g each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegan BBQ sauce (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 cups (140 g) shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup (70 g) shredded purple cabbage
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1/4 cup (30 g) thinly sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 8 large butter lettuce leaves (or romaine hearts)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Creamy Slaw: In a large bowl, combine green and purple cabbage, carrot, and green onions. In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the vegetables and toss until well coated. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2

Prepare the Jackfruit: Use your hands or forks to shred the jackfruit pieces, removing any hard core or seeds.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add red onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4

Add shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to coat the jackfruit in the spices.

Step 5

Stir in BBQ sauce, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and sauce is thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6

Assemble Tacos: Place a generous spoonful of BBQ jackfruit into each lettuce leaf. Top with creamy slaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke to the jackfruit mixture. Ensure you use gluten-free BBQ sauce if you need to keep the entire recipe gluten-free.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute jackfruit with shredded oyster mushrooms for a different texture. This recipe is highly versatile and works well with various plant-based proteins.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these tacos with avocado slices or pickled red onions for added flavor. Fresh lime wedges are essential for a final zesty finish that brightens the smoky BBQ notes.

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Enjoy these BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Tacos as a wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on taste. They are the perfect embodiment of fresh, healthy, and flavorful plant-based cooking.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prepare jackfruit for the dish?

Drain and rinse canned young green jackfruit, then shred it by hand or with forks, removing any hard cores or seeds before cooking.

→ Can I add extra smokiness to the jackfruit?

Yes, a dash of liquid smoke enhances the smoky flavor when simmering the jackfruit in BBQ sauce.

→ What type of lettuce works best for the tacos?

Large butter lettuce leaves or romaine hearts provide sturdy, crisp vessels to hold the jackfruit and slaw.

→ Is the creamy slaw dairy-free?

Yes, the slaw uses vegan mayonnaise combined with apple cider vinegar and maple syrup to create a creamy, tangy dressing without dairy.

→ Can I substitute the jackfruit with another ingredient?

Shredded oyster mushrooms can be used as an alternative to jackfruit for a different texture and similar flavor absorption.