Taco Tuesday is perfect for Jerk Jackfruit tacos
Taco Tuesday is perfect for Jerk Jackfruit tacos! is a easy Tex-Mex recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Tabitha Brown on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: 23 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $109.36 total, $27.34 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) Young Green Jackfruit (canned, in water) (drained and rinsed)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing)
- 1.5 tsp Garlic Powder (divided use)
- 2 Tbsp Mexican Taco Seasoning (low‑sodium, zero‑sodium blend)
- 1 tsp Dried Cilantro Flakes (optional, adds fresh herb flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Bourbon Maple Syrup (adds sweet‑heat)
- 1 Tbsp Rhubarb & Molasses Jerk Seasoning (provides jerk flavor and extra sweetness)
- 1 medium White Onion (sliced)
- 1 large Red Bell Pepper (sliced)
- 1 large Green Bell Pepper (sliced)
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Coconut Aminos (umami salty boost)
- 1 tsp Spicy Cajun Olive Oil (adds heat to vegetables)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach Leaves (for warming in tortilla)
- 8 pieces Gluten‑Free Corn Tortillas (2 per serving)
- 1 cup Mango (diced, adds sweet contrast)
- 0.25 cup Vegan Mayonnaise (base for jerk ranch sauce)
- 1 tsp Dill Weed (dried) (flavor for ranch)
- 1 Tbsp Jerk Hot Sauce (adds heat to ranch)
- 0.5 cup Guacamole (optional topping)
Instructions
Drain and Rinse Jackfruit
Open the cans, pour out the brine, and rinse the jackfruit under cold water, letting excess water drip off.
Time: PT5M
Shred the Jackfruit
Using two forks or your hands, pull apart the jackfruit pieces until they resemble shredded meat. Set aside.
Time: PT5M
Season and Sauté Jackfruit
Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 Tbsp Mexican taco seasoning, 1 tsp dried cilantro, then add the shredded jackfruit. Stir, then drizzle 1 Tbsp bourbon maple syrup and 1 Tbsp jerk seasoning. Cook, breaking up the fruit occasionally, until it browns and gets a slight crisp on the edges.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: Medium heat
Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss sliced white onion, red and green bell peppers. Sprinkle ½ tsp garlic powder, drizzle 1 Tbsp coconut aminos, and add 1 tsp spicy Cajun olive oil. Cook until softened and lightly caramelized.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium heat
Warm Tortillas and Spinach
Place the gluten‑free tortillas in a clean dry skillet for 30‑45 seconds per side until pliable. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the same pan just until wilted, then set aside.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: Medium heat
Make Jerk Ranch Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine 0.25 cup vegan mayonnaise, ½ tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried dill, and 1 Tbsp jerk hot sauce. Whisk until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Assemble the Tacos
Lay a warm tortilla on a plate, add a generous scoop of seasoned jackfruit, top with sautéed peppers and onions, a handful of diced mango, a drizzle of jerk ranch, and a spoonful of guacamole. Fold and enjoy!
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 8 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Low‑Sodium
Allergens: Soy (coconut aminos), Potential trace of nuts in some spice blends
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Young Green Jackfruit (canned, in water): young green jackfruit in brine, shredded jackfruit in oil
- Instead of Olive Oil: avocado oil, vegetable oil
- Instead of Garlic Powder: fresh minced garlic (use 1 clove)
- Instead of Mexican Taco Seasoning: store‑bought taco seasoning, homemade chili‑lime blend
- Instead of Dried Cilantro Flakes: fresh cilantro, chopped
- Instead of Bourbon Maple Syrup: pure maple syrup, agave nectar
- Instead of Rhubarb & Molasses Jerk Seasoning: jerk seasoning blend, homemade jerk rub
- Instead of White Onion: yellow onion
- Instead of Red Bell Pepper: any color bell pepper
- Instead of Green Bell Pepper: any color bell pepper
- Instead of Garlic Coconut Aminos: soy sauce (use low‑sodium)
- Instead of Spicy Cajun Olive Oil: regular olive oil + pinch cayenne
- Instead of Fresh Spinach Leaves: kale, mixed greens
- Instead of Gluten‑Free Corn Tortillas: regular corn tortillas
- Instead of Mango: pineapple chunks
- Instead of Vegan Mayonnaise: vegan aioli
- Instead of Dill Weed (dried): fresh dill, chopped
- Instead of Jerk Hot Sauce: sriracha, chipotle hot sauce
- Instead of Guacamole: smashed avocado with lime
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowl
- Tongs (optional)
- Serving Plate (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Shredding the jackfruit to the right size
- Achieving a lightly crisp edge on the jackfruit without burning
- Balancing sweet (maple bourbon) and heat (jerk seasoning) in the jackfruit mixture
- Properly warming the tortillas to prevent tearing
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the jackfruit seasoning
- Use a squeeze bottle for the maple bourbon syrup to drizzle evenly
- If you like extra crunch, toss the shredded jackfruit with a teaspoon of cornmeal before sautéing.
Troubleshooting
Jackfruit stays soggy and never browns
Increase the heat to medium‑high and add a splash more oil; avoid crowding the pan so moisture can evaporate.
Tortillas tear when folding
Warm them just a bit longer and keep them covered with a damp towel to stay pliable.
Tacos are too salty or too sweet
Taste the jackfruit mixture before finishing; add a pinch more taco seasoning for salt or a drizzle of lime juice to cut sweetness.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooked jackfruit, sautéed veggies, and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Jackfruit mixture freezes well for up to 2 months; reheat in a skillet. Do not freeze tortillas after assembly.
Room temperature: Assembled tacos should be eaten within 2 hours; otherwise refrigerate.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the seasoned jackfruit mixture a day ahead and store in the fridge; reheat quickly before serving
- The jerk ranch sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance
- Chop the vegetables and store in a sealed bag to save prep time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Jackfruit Tacos in vegan Tex‑Mex cuisine?
Jackfruit has become a popular plant‑based meat substitute in modern vegan adaptations of classic Tex‑Mex dishes. Its neutral texture allows it to absorb bold taco seasonings, offering a cruelty‑free alternative that respects the flavor profile of traditional Mexican street tacos.
What are the traditional regional variations of tacos in Mexican cuisine and how does this vegan version compare?
Traditional Mexican tacos vary by region—Al Pastore from the north uses grilled beef, while coastal tacos feature fish or shrimp. This vegan jackfruit taco mirrors the shredded‑meat texture of northern tacos while incorporating Caribbean jerk notes, creating a fusion twist that honors both cultures.
How is Jackfruit Tacos traditionally served in Tex‑Mex street food culture?
In street‑food settings, tacos are served on warm corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, onions, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. Tabitha Brown’s version adds mango, guacamole, and a creamy jerk‑ranch sauce for a modern, plant‑based spin while still keeping the handheld format.
What occasions or celebrations are Jackfruit Tacos associated with in vegan communities?
Vegan taco nights, plant‑based potlucks, and Taco Tuesday gatherings often feature jackfruit tacos as a crowd‑pleasing main. They’re also popular for game‑day snacks because they’re easy to assemble and can be made ahead.
What makes Jackfruit Tacos special or unique in vegan Tex‑Mex cuisine?
The combination of sweet bourbon‑maple syrup, Caribbean jerk seasoning, and fresh mango creates a layered sweet‑heat profile rarely found in standard vegan tacos, making the dish stand out for its bold, balanced flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Jackfruit Tacos?
Common errors include over‑crowding the pan, which steams rather than browns the jackfruit, and adding too much liquid syrup, which can make the mixture soggy. Also, under‑seasoning the jackfruit will result in a bland filling.
Why does this Jackfruit Tacos recipe use bourbon maple syrup instead of regular sugar?
Bourbon maple syrup adds depth with caramel‑like notes and a subtle smoky finish that complements the jerk seasoning, whereas plain sugar would only provide sweetness without the complex flavor profile needed for the taco filling.
Can I make Jackfruit Tacos ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes. Store the cooked jackfruit mixture, sautéed vegetables, and jerk ranch sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the jackfruit and veggies in a skillet before assembling fresh tortillas.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Jackfruit Tacos?
The jackfruit should be golden‑brown on the edges with a slightly crisp bite, resembling shredded chicken. The vegetables should be tender‑crisp, and the tortillas should be soft but not soggy, holding the fillings without tearing.
How do I know when the Jackfruit is done cooking?
When the jackfruit pieces have browned, developed a light crisp on the edges, and have absorbed the seasonings, it’s ready. A quick taste should reveal a smoky, slightly sweet flavor with a tender yet firm texture.
What does the YouTube channel Tabitha Brown specialize in?
The YouTube channel Tabitha Brown focuses on wholesome, plant‑based comfort food, sharing vegan recipes that are easy, flavorful, and often infused with her signature Southern‑inspired warmth and positivity.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Tabitha Brown?
Tabitha Brown’s cooking philosophy emphasizes simple, accessible vegan meals that prioritize flavor, nutrition, and joy. She often incorporates soulful storytelling, encouraging viewers to cook with love and confidence.
Last updated: August 31, 2026








