In grocery stores, more people are finding a great meat substitute in shredded jackfruit. Mimicking the texture of meat, they’re a vegan’s dream food and a go-to ingredient for anyone that wants to eat more healthfully. Hailing from tropical regions in Southeast Asia, this strange fruit is in the right place at the right time, making it the ultimate way to turn your favorite recipes into healthier options without sacrificing flavor. Check out my favorite vegan jackfruit recipes for meal prep inspiration!
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What is jackfruit?
Jackfruit comes from tropical trees in Southeast Asia and has a meaty texture inside. Depending on whether it is young jackfruit or not, you will either have a sweet or savory flavor. But that doesn’t really matter when using it in recipes, for you can easily turn it right into your favorite vegan meals.
An actual jackfruit is quite heavy, but luckily, most grocery stores have it already prepared. You can find a can of jackfruit or packages of it cut into portions that are ready to cook or eat.
Where can I buy jackfruit?
Head to your grocery store (hello, Trader Joe!), health food stores, or you can try an Asian grocery store. Jackfruit is that versatile ingredient you need to whip up delicious recipes. And now, it’s so much easier to find available in stores.
The great thing about jackfruit is that it can be used in so many ways. You’ll find sweet flavor plus savory jackfruit recipes that will have you cooking up all kinds of vegan recipes with this versatile fruit.
Vegan Mexican Jackfruit Recipes
Whether you use store-bought corn tortillas or homemade tortillas, shredded jackfruit fits right in with Mexican recipes. A squeeze of lime juice, a touch of red onion, and vegan cheese all help accentuate the incredible pulled pork texture of this unique fruit. Even if you just added taco seasoning, no one would realize it’s not meat!
BBQ Jackfruit Tacos with Homemade Tortillas
Using less than ten ingredients, you can make these easy jackfruit tacos.
Tender and flavorful vegan jackfruit carnitas require just a handful of simple, inexpensive pantry ingredients and 25 minutes to prepare—perfect for tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and more!
Pile jackfruit up with your favorite toppings to create vegan burgers that no one can resist. The flavors are bold and brilliant and will change everyone’s mind about going meatless.
Easy Pulled Jackfruit Burger
If you’re looking for the perfect meat substitute, try these jackfruit burgers instead of pulled pork!
This Buffalo Pulled Jackfruit Burger recipe is incredibly simple, healthy, and delicious! Perfect for vegan-friendly summer cookouts or a healthy weeknight dinner.
The meaty texture of jackfruit is a smash hit in sandwiches and wraps. Make a satisfying lunch or casual dinner with more ease and without sacrificing flavor!
Vegan Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich
This warm, juicy vegan jackfruit sandwich will satisfy your cravings for BBQ pulled pork and comfort food in one go. Try this easy and delicious vegan sandwich packed with nutrients and fiber!
This vegan tuna salad with jackfruit and chickpeas is creamy and textured like the non vegan Tuna salad. With two ingredients it gets its sea taste. We cannot get enough of it. It is perfect for example as a sandwich or tossed just over a lettuce salad.
Shredded jackfruit can easily be added to soups too. These vegan recipes are simple and satisfying. You can even use jackfruit to replace meat in other soup recipes too.
Jackfruit Noodle Soup
This vegan “chicken” noodle soup will make you feel so much better! If you’re sick or feel nostalgic, this soup is for you!
Dive into a savory bowl of vegan tortilla soup made with jackfruit, grilled corn, and various vegetables. Top with corn tortilla strips for an added crunch to this delicious vegan tortilla soup recipe.
This quick and easy vegan recipe is done in just 15 minutes and makes the perfect party appetizers, game day snacks, or a simple yet filling weeknight dinner.
This delicious Jackfruit Curry is made with warming Indian spices, jackfruit, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk. It’s both vegan and Paleo and nutrient-dense but incredibly creamy!
If you do get a whole jackfruit, unripe jackfruit can ripen up on your counter. Then you can use the following storage tips to help make it last. For store-bought and cooked jackfruit, these methods for your fridge and freezer still apply.
Fridge
Whether you’ve used it and cooked it in your vegan recipe, or you’ve opened your container and haven’t used it all, you will want to keep it in the fridge. Any jackfruit you haven’t used should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stowed in an airtight container. It will last between 5 and 7 days. The same goes for your cooked recipes, though I’d aim to finish them off sooner rather than later for the best flavors.
Freezer
You can also freeze jackfruit to prolong its life before you cook with it. Make sure it’s cut into smaller pieces first, as those will be easier to work with. It will last for up to 2 months in here. If your meal with jackfruit is cooked, simply keep it in an airtight container and try to use it within 2 to 3 months max.
FAQ
Is jackfruit good for vegans?
Jackfruit is good for just about everyone. It has a high protein content and loads of nutrients, making it an excellent choice. If you are allergic to birch pollen or latex, you should avoid eating jackfruit. And since it contains a high potassium content, it can be harmful to you if you suffer from kidney disease or acute kidney failure.
Why do vegans eat jackfruit?
Vegans eat jackfruit because it’s hearty and meaty without actually eating meat. This helps make your recipes feel more substantial and filling. Plus, it tastes great!
What can I use canned jackfruit for?
You can use cans of jackfruit to make just about anything. Try making a BBQ jackfruit sandwich, creamy curry, vegan carnitas, or a vegan French dip sandwich. Check my post for all the amazing vegan recipes you can whip up with canned jackfruit!
How do you make vegan meat from jackfruit?
Simply cook the jackfruit pods into your recipes. If you’re just starting out with jackfruit, I recommend finding it already prepared in cans or packages. This makes it a lot easier and gives you a feel for how to work with this fruit.
Does raw jackfruit taste like chicken?
Jackfruit is often likened to pulled pork, both in texture and flavor. It’s easy to use in sweet recipes and savory ones too.
Final Words
You don’t need to be vegan to give jackfruit a try. If you’re looking for a way to lighten up your meals, add more nutrition, or simply try something new, these 40 vegan jackfruit recipes will help you make meatless meals more easily!
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Hi, I'm Rae. The voice behind Raepublic. I have an MS in Nutrition and Functional Medicine. My aim is to assist people who have experienced trauma to live a more holistic, well-balanced life. Through nutrition, plant-based eating, sustainable living, mindfulness, and movement.
These all look so delicious!
They are so good!