Introduction
If you’re looking for a plant based taco that’s full of flavor and texture, these Vegan Jackfruit Tacos with Lime Crema are a must try! The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled meat, absorbing smoky and zesty spices, while the lime crema adds a creamy, tangy finish. These tacos are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for taco night, meal prep, or a fun weekend dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Completely Vegan & Dairy Free – No animal products, just bold, fresh flavors!
✔️ Easy & Quick – Ready in 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
✔️ Packed with Protein & Fiber – Thanks to jackfruit and black beans.
✔️ Meal Prep Friendly – The jackfruit filling tastes even better the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Cutting board & knife
- Mixing bowls
- Forks (for shredding jackfruit)
- Citrus juicer
Ingredients (Makes 8 Tacos, Serves 4)
For the Jackfruit Filling:
- 2 (14-oz) cans of young green jackfruit in brine, drained & shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or agave)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
For the Lime Crema:
- ½ cup vegan sour cream (or blended soaked cashews)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas, warmed
- ½ cup black beans warmed
- ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for spice)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Nutritional Information (Per 2 Tacos, Approximate)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
Step by Step Instructions
- Total Time: 30 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
1. Prepare the Jackfruit
- Drain the canned jackfruit, rinse, and pat dry.
- Use forks or your hands to shred the jackfruit into thin strips (it should resemble pulled pork).
2. Cook the Jackfruit Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add red onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded jackfruit and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in tomato paste, maple syrup, and vegetable broth.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the jackfruit is tender and flavors meld.
- Finish with lime juice, stir, and remove from heat.
3. Make the Lime Crema
- In a small bowl, whisk together vegan sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and salt.
- Adjust lime juice to taste for more tang.
4. Warm the Tortillas
- Heat corn tortillas over a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap them in a damp towel and microwave for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the Tacos
- Place a scoop of jackfruit filling onto each warm tortilla.
- Top with black beans, red cabbage, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime crema and add sliced jalapeños if desired.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for the Best Vegan Jackfruit Tacos
Use Young Green Jackfruit – Only use jackfruit in brine, not syrup!
Add More Spice – For heat, mix in chipotle powder or hot sauce.
Let the Jackfruit Sit – The filling develops deeper flavors if made in advance.
Customize the Toppings – Add vegan cheese, pickled onions, or salsa.
Make it gluten-free – Stick to corn tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad – A fresh mango salsa or avocado salad complements these tacos.
With Rice & Beans – Serve with Mexican-style cilantro lime rice.
Drink Pairing – Enjoy with a margarita, agua fresca, or iced hibiscus tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
A: Yes! Ensure
it’s unripe (green) jackfruit, not the ripe, sweet variety.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store jackfruit filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
Q: Can I bake or air fry the jackfruit for a crispier texture?
A: Absolutely! After cooking, spread the jackfruit on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes at 370°F.
Q: Can I freeze jackfruit taco filling?
A: Yes! Freeze the cooked jackfruit filling for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What can I use instead of lime crema?
A: Try avocado crema (blended avocado, lime juice, and garlic) or a simple salsa verde drizzle.
Conclusion
These Vegan Jackfruit Tacos with Lime Crema are the ultimate plant-based taco experience—flavorful, satisfying, and packed with fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether for Taco Tuesday, a family dinner, or meal prep, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for more!