Smoky Pulled Jackfruit
Prep Time:
15 Minutes
Serves:
4–6 Servings
Cook Time:
30 Minutes
Author
About the Recipe
This smoky pulled jackfruit is tender, flavorful, and perfect for tacos, burritos, sandwiches, rice bowls, or nachos. Simmering the jackfruit in a rich blend of spices allows it to absorb all the flavor, while a final pan-fry creates delicious crispy edges and the perfect meaty texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- 3 teaspoons sambal oelek or chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 (20 oz / 565 g) cans young green jackfruit in water, drained and rinsed
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 teaspoons liquid smoke, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Suggested Taco Toppings
- Pickled red onions
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Thinly sliced radish
- Avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro
- Pickled jalapeños
- Salsa or hot sauce
- Lime wedges
Servings
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Linked Recipes
Preparation
Step 1
Drain and rinse the jackfruit. Trim away any tough core pieces if desired, then gently shred the larger chunks using your hands or two forks.
Step 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
Step 3
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, sambal oelek or chili powder, and tomato paste. Stir continuously for 1 minute to toast the spices and cook the tomato paste.
Step 5
Add the shredded jackfruit, soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 6
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, use the back of a spoon or two forks to shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled meat.
Step 7
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the jackfruit to the hot pan and add a small splash of soy sauce.
Step 8
Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges become browned and slightly crispy.
Step 9
Serve immediately in tacos, burritos, rice bowls, sandwiches, or nachos with your favorite toppings.
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