Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

Delicious and hearty, these Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are a perfect plant-based meal that satisfies cravings for BBQ with a fresh twist.

Ella

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T01:43:28.850Z

These Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork, and when tossed in BBQ sauce, it becomes a sensational filling for tacos. Top with your favorite toppings for a delicious, satisfying dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Savory and smoky flavor that satisfies BBQ cravings
  • Easy to make with just a few ingredients
  • Versatile toppings allow for customization
  • Healthy plant-based option for taco night

A Flavorful Plant-Based Alternative

If you're looking for a satisfying meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, these Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are the answer. Jackfruit has gained popularity as a meat substitute due to its unique texture, which mimics pulled pork perfectly. When combined with a smoky BBQ sauce, it transforms into a hearty filling that will please both vegans and meat-lovers alike.

The savory and slightly sweet profile of BBQ sauce complements the jackfruit's subtle taste, creating a rich and enjoyable taco experience. Whether you're hosting a taco night with friends or simply craving something delicious, these tacos are sure to impress. Plus, the use of wholesome, plant-based ingredients makes them a guilt-free indulgence.

Customizable and Fun

One of the best aspects of these tacos is their versatility. You can customize them with an array of toppings to suit your taste. From avocado slices and fresh salsa to spicy jalapeños and creamy vegan sour cream, the options are endless. This allows everyone to personalize their tacos, making them a fun addition to any gathering.

Additionally, you can easily adjust the level of heat by choosing a BBQ sauce that suits your spice preference. For those who like it hot, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes. The adaptability of these tacos means they can cater to a variety of dietary needs and flavor profiles.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. The jackfruit filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Simply warm up the filling and assemble your tacos when you're ready to eat.

This recipe is also freezer-friendly. You can portion out the jackfruit mixture and freeze it for later use. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful, home-cooked meal whenever you're short on time.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

  • 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving

Feel free to add any additional toppings you love!

Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large pan over medium heat, add the drained jackfruit. Cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Use a fork to shred the jackfruit into smaller pieces.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour the BBQ sauce over the shredded jackfruit and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Warm the Tortillas

While the jackfruit is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet for about 1 minute on each side until pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with the BBQ jackfruit mixture. Top with shredded cabbage and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious vegan tacos!

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Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce for an hour before cooking.

Tips for the Best Tacos

To achieve the best texture for your jackfruit, ensure it's young green jackfruit packed in water or brine. This type of jackfruit is less mature, allowing it to shred easily and soak up flavors effectively. Avoid using ripe jackfruit as it is much sweeter and won't give you the desired savory flavor.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking. This enhances the taste and allows the jackfruit to absorb the sauce's smoky notes deeply. Additionally, don't hesitate to experiment with different BBQ sauces, as each variety can bring a unique taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tacos with a side of black beans or a fresh corn salad to create a complete meal that is both filling and nutritious. A simple avocado salad dressed with lime juice can also provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the tacos.

For a fun twist, consider making a taco bar where everyone can assemble their own tacos with their preferred toppings. This interactive dining experience not only makes for a memorable meal but also encourages creativity in flavor combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, fresh jackfruit can be used, but it requires more preparation to peel and cut.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortillas and BBQ sauce.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store any leftover jackfruit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to add avocado, salsa, or vegan sour cream for extra flavor.

Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

Delicious and hearty, these Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos are a perfect plant-based meal that satisfies cravings for BBQ with a fresh twist.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Ella

Recipe Type: Easy Global Meals

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Tacos

  1. 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
  2. 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  3. 8 small corn tortillas
  4. 1 cup shredded cabbage
  5. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  6. Lime wedges for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pan over medium heat, add the drained jackfruit. Cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Use a fork to shred the jackfruit into smaller pieces.

Step 02

Pour the BBQ sauce over the shredded jackfruit and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Step 03

While the jackfruit is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet for about 1 minute on each side until pliable.

Step 04

Fill each tortilla with the BBQ jackfruit mixture. Top with shredded cabbage and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Extra Tips

  1. For extra flavor, marinate the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce for an hour before cooking.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Dietary Fiber: 6g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 7g