Are you looking to add some excitement to your plant-based cooking repertoire? Look no further than jackfruit! This versatile and nutritious fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from spicy tacos to savory curries. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to work with, thanks to its tender texture and mild flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious jackfruit recipes that are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for some inspiration for a quick weeknight meal. From classic comfort food dishes like pulled pork sandwiches and chili, to innovative twists on international cuisine like Indian biryani and Thai satay, there’s something for everyone in this collection of jackfruit recipes.
Spicy Jackfruit Tacos with Avocado Crema
A flavorful fusion of Mexican flavors and tropical jackfruit, these tacos pack a punch of spice and creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jackfruit
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine jackfruit, onion, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the jackfruit mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of Avocado Crema.
4. Top with desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with this innovative take on traditional pulled pork sandwiches, featuring tender jackfruit smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and piled high on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of young green jackfruit (drained and chopped)
– 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine the chopped jackfruit, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and coated in the sauce.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the pulled jackfruit onto the buns and topping with coleslaw (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes.
Jackfruit Curry with Coconut Milk
Jackfruit Curry with Coconut Milk: A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that’s perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh, drained)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add jackfruit and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jackfruit Biryani with Fragrant Spices
Experience the rich flavors of South Indian cuisine with this aromatic jackfruit biryani recipe, infused with a blend of fragrant spices. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jackfruit
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Mix in cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked jackfruit and stir well to combine.
6. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
7. Combine cooked rice with the jackfruit mixture and mix gently.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jackfruit Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
Experience the unique flavor and texture of jackfruit in this vibrant stir-fry, paired with sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Add the chopped jackfruit and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until well combined with the bell peppers.
5. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Jackfruit Carnitas
Transform traditional carnitas into a plant-based sensation with this vegan jackfruit recipe, featuring tender and juicy “meat” that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a standalone main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together lime juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chopped jackfruit and toss to coat.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender and caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jackfruit and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines the sweetness of jackfruit with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the chopped jackfruit to the skillet and stir to combine with the black bean mixture.
6. Warm the flour tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the burritos by spooning the jackfruit and black bean mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using). Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Jackfruit Spring Rolls
Transform your snack game with these crispy and flavorful jackfruit spring rolls, filled with tender jackfruit and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or cooked fresh)
– 1/2 cup mixed veggies (carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen section)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, mixed veggies, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a compact cylinder.
5. Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Jackfruit Fried Rice with Pineapple
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of jackfruit, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional fried rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jackfruit
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cooked jackfruit and pineapple chunks. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Mix the vegetables and jackfruit mixture together.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Jackfruit Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this unique twist on the classic pot pie. The tender jackfruit filling, combined with a buttery flaky crust, will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh), drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until softened.
3. Add jackfruit, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the filling is thickened.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with jackfruit mixture and crimp edges.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Jackfruit Bowl
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional jackfruit dishes, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of jackfruit with a hint of sourness from a blend of citrus and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or cooked fresh)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until well combined.
2. Add the cooked jackfruit to the bowl and toss to coat with the sweet and sour mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
5. Serve immediately over a bed of steamed rice or as a standalone snack.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Jackfruit Chili with Cornbread
This recipe combines the unique flavor of jackfruit with classic chili spices, served alongside a crumbly cornbread. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Jackfruit Chili:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cornbread:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jackfruit chili according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornbread ingredients. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve the jackfruit chili over the cornbread.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jackfruit Satay with Peanut Sauce
Savor the flavors of Southeast Asia with this vegan twist on traditional satay. Tender jackfruit and crispy peanut sauce come together for a deliciously addictive snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup young green jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Thread about 1/4 cup of the jackfruit mixture onto each bamboo skewer.
4. Grill satay for 5-7 minutes per side or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately with Peanut Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jackfruit and Mushroom Stroganoff
A twist on the classic dish, this recipe combines tender jackfruit with sautéed mushrooms and a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in jackfruit, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and tomato paste. Pour into skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jackfruit Gumbo with Okra
This recipe combines the tender, slightly sweet flesh of jackfruit with the rich flavors of okra and spices to create a unique gumbo that’s sure to please. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh), drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add thyme, cumin, and cayenne (if using); cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chopped jackfruit, okra, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let gumbo cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and okra has thickened the mixture slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jackfruit Pizza with Vegan Cheese
This recipe combines the sweetness of jackfruit with the creaminess of vegan cheese, all on top of a crispy pizza crust. Perfect for a meatless Monday or any day of the week!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jackfruit
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds (such as Daiya)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust or homemade crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread tomato sauce over the pizza crust.
3. Add cooked jackfruit on top of the sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle vegan mozzarella shreds evenly over the jackfruit.
5. Top with chopped basil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jackfruit Kebabs with Tzatziki
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these innovative, plant-based kebabs. Sweet and tender jackfruit pairs perfectly with creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh, drained and chopped)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread chopped jackfruit onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 5-7 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a bowl. Mix well to make tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve grilled jackfruit kebabs with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jackfruit Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Discover the sweet and savory combination of jackfruit pancakes with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh, drained)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together jackfruit, egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on skillet heat and pancake size)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 delicious jackfruit recipes! From tacos and sandwiches to curries, stir-fries, and more, there’s something for every occasion. Try Spicy Jackfruit Tacos with Avocado Crema or BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches for a flavorful twist on classic dishes. Or, go global with Jackfruit Curry with Coconut Milk or Jackfruit Satay with Peanut Sauce. And don’t forget to save room for sweet treats like Sweet and Sour Jackfruit Bowl! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to please.
