Save Experience a refreshing plant-based twist on a classic favorite with these Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Tacos. Tender jackfruit is slow-simmered in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce to achieve a texture that perfectly mimics pulled meat, then served in crisp butter lettuce cups for a light and satisfying meal. Topped with a tangy, creamy slaw, these tacos provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Save Whether you're looking for a healthy dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes. The contrast between the warm BBQ jackfruit and the chilled, crunchy slaw makes it a versatile dish that transitions perfectly from a casual lunch to a vibrant dinner.
Ingredients
- For the BBQ Jackfruit
- 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
- For the Creamy Slaw
- 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
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- For Serving
- 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
Using a large skillet allows the jackfruit to cook evenly and the sauce to thicken properly. Ensure you use a sharp knife for julienning the carrots and cabbage to achieve a uniform texture in your slaw. For shredding the jackfruit, using your hands can often be more efficient than forks to ensure all core pieces are removed.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra layer of depth, add a dash of liquid smoke to the jackfruit mixture while it simmers. If you're looking for a different texture, shredded oyster mushrooms make an excellent substitute for jackfruit. To keep the dish strictly gluten-free, double-check that your chosen BBQ sauce brand is certified.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these tacos immediately after assembly to maintain the crispness of the lettuce. They pair beautifully with fresh avocado slices or pickled red onions for added tang. A side of lime wedges is essential to provide a bright, acidic finish that cuts through the smoky BBQ sauce.
Save These Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Tacos are a testament to how flavorful and satisfying plant-based cooking can be. Enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on the classic BBQ taste you love.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you prepare jackfruit for cooking?
Drain and rinse canned young green jackfruit, then shred it by hand or with forks, removing any hard cores or seeds before cooking.
- → What gives the jackfruit its smoky flavor?
Smoked paprika and a vegan BBQ sauce combined with sautéed onions and garlic create the smoky, rich flavor in the jackfruit.
- → How is the creamy slaw made?
Green and purple cabbage, carrot, and green onions are tossed with a dressing made from vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- → Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, using a gluten-free BBQ sauce ensures the entire dish remains gluten-free.
- → What are good garnishes for these tacos?
Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges add brightness and a fresh finishing touch to the tacos.
