Chipotle BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

What I love most about these tacos is that they’re SO easy, SO delicious, and they will have even the pickiest meat eaters asking for more. Plus, they are full of veggies and plant protein to create a perfectly well-balanced meal. The chipotle peppers pack some heat with a spicy smoky flavor, but it’s instantly balanced by the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. This is a wonderful weeknight or meatless Monday meal because the entire sha-bang comes together in less than 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Jackfruit Questions:

What is Jackfruit?

You may not realize this, but jackfruit is indeed a fruit! It is a cousin to the fig and mulberry, and it is actually the largest fruit on earth. That’s right – mature jackfruits can weigh up to 100 pounds. Can you imagine having the job of harvesting those?! However, when harvested young, jackfruit has a very neutral, mild flavor and a meaty, stringy texture, similar to that of shredded pork. When making a recipe that traditionally calls for shredded meat, jackfruit is a wonderful substitute for any savory recipe.

Where to Buy Jackfruit?

It is important to note that there are two VERY different types of jackfruit, purely determined by its ripeness. Jackfruit sold in produce sections is always very ripe. This is the perfect jackfruit to buy to use in smoothies, fruit bowls, or desserts. However, for recipes like these tacos, you want young, green jackfruit. This variety can be found at most grocery stores in the canned or frozen section, and sometimes even in a refrigerated pouch.

How to Prepare Jackfruit for These BBQ Jackfruit Tacos?

My favorite type of jackfruit to use is canned jackfruit. When working with this variety there are a few simple steps to follow:

1. Drain: Pour the contents of the can into a colander to drain the brine.
2. Rinse: Next, rinse with cool water, letting excess water drain.
3. Squeeze: Wrap the jackfruit pieces in a clean kitchen towel or cheese cloth and firmly squeeze over the sink to remove excess moisture.
4. Chop or Shred: Use your hands or a knife to pull the pieces apart and create meat-like shreds.
5. Bake, Simmer or Sauté

Is Jackfruit Healthy?

In short, Yes!! Jackfruit is rich with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and is totally cholesterol-free unlike shredded meat. The one thing it lacks is high protein, so I always recommend pairing it with a plant-based protein option like legumes, tofu, tempeh, or nuts. This specific recipe combines jackfruit and shredded tofu for a protein-packed meal!

Can These BBQ Jackfruit Tacos be Made with Other Flavors?

Heck yes! This recipe is a wonderful guide to make any flavor of taco! You could use traditional dry taco seasoning, curry powder, tikka masala sauce, buffalo sauce, seasoning, or anything your heart desires.