The BEST Vegan JACKFRUIT Tacos

The BEST Vegan JACKFRUIT Tacos is a medium Mexican recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Irene Athanasiou on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 52 min | Total: 1 hr 35 min

Cost: $28.98 total, $7.24 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (approx. 520 g drained) Canned Young Green Jackfruit in Brine (drained and shredded; look for 20‑oz cans in the Asian aisle)
  • 2.5 tablespoons Coconut Oil (use virgin coconut oil for a subtle flavor)
  • 1 Large Yellow Onion (roughly 200 g, diced)
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon Vegan Bouillon Powder (adds umami; any vegetable bouillon works)
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 tablespoon Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano (chopped leaves)
  • 800 grams Chunky Tomato Sauce (two 400 g cans; can substitute crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha Sauce (optional for heat; add more to taste)
  • 1 Red Onion (finely diced for guacamole)
  • 1 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 Lemon (juiced)
  • 2 Avocados (ripe, diced)
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 8 Ready‑Made Taco Shells (corn or flour, baked according to package)
  • 1 cup Vegan Shredded Cheese (grated; any plant‑based cheddar style works)

Instructions

  1. Drain and Shred Jackfruit

    Open the cans, pour out all liquid, and place the jackfruit in a colander. Press gently to remove excess water, then use your fingers or two forks to pull apart the pieces into shredded, meat‑like strands.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Sauté Onions

    Heat 2½ Tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 7 minutes.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  3. Add Garlic

    Add the minced garlic to the onions and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  4. Season the Base

    Stir in 1 Tbsp vegan bouillon powder, 1 Tbsp smoked paprika, 1 Tbsp ground cumin, 1 Tbsp sea salt, and the chopped fresh oregano. Mix well for 1 minute.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Add Tomato Sauce and Sugar

    Pour in 800 g chunky tomato sauce (two 400 g cans) and add 1 Tbsp granulated sugar. Stir to combine and let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Simmer Jackfruit in Sauce

    Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet, mixing until every piece is coated. Simmer on medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium heat

  7. Bake for Crispiness

    Pre‑heat the oven to 220 °C. Transfer the jackfruit mixture onto a parchment‑lined baking tray, spreading it in a thin, even layer. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are crispy and caramelized.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 220°C

  8. Prepare Guacamole

    While the jackfruit bakes, combine the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, juice of one lemon, sea salt, black pepper, and the diced avocados in a bowl. Gently toss until evenly mixed.

    Time: PT10M

  9. Warm Taco Shells

    Place the ready‑made taco shells on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions (usually 6 minutes at 180 °C) until lightly crisp.

    Time: PT6M

    Temperature: 180°C

  10. Assemble Tacos

    Fill each warm taco shell with a generous spoonful of the baked jackfruit, sprinkle grated vegan cheese on top, and finish with a dollop of guacamole. Serve immediately.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
8 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
8 g

Dietary info: Vegan, Dairy‑Free, Vegetarian

Allergens: coconut, soy (in vegan cheese), avocado

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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The BEST Vegan JACKFRUIT Tacos

Recipe by Irene Athanasiou

Crispy, smoky jackfruit seasoned with tomato sauce, smoked paprika, cumin and fresh oregano, served in warm taco shells and topped with creamy guacamole and grated vegan cheese. A satisfying plant‑based twist on classic Mexican tacos.

MediumMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
1h 1m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 22m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$28.98
Total cost
$7.24
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Shredding the canned jackfruit to achieve a meat‑like texture.
  • Baking the jackfruit mixture on a thin layer for maximum crispiness.
  • Balancing the seasoning (salt, smoked paprika, cumin) before the final bake.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and the hot skillet with care to avoid burns.
  • Use oven mitts when placing and removing the baking tray from a 220 °C oven.
  • Use a sharp knife on a stable cutting board to prevent slips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of vegan jackfruit tacos in Mexican cuisine?

A

Jackfruit is not traditional in Mexican cooking; it is a modern, plant‑based substitute for shredded pork or beef used by vegans to recreate the texture of classic taco fillings while honoring the Mexican tradition of flavorful, spice‑laden street tacos.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of tacos in Mexican cuisine and how does this vegan jackfruit version compare?

A

Traditional Mexican tacos vary by region – from al pastor in central Mexico to carne asada in the north and fish tacos on the coast. The vegan jackfruit taco mimics the texture of al pastor or carnitas, using smoky paprika and cumin to echo those regional flavor profiles.

cultural
Q

How is authentic Mexican taco traditionally served in Mexico, and how can I present this vegan version similarly?

A

In Mexico, tacos are served on warm corn or flour tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, onions, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. Serve the vegan jackfruit tacos on warmed corn tortillas, add fresh cilantro, diced onion, and a drizzle of salsa or hot sauce for an authentic feel.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is jackfruit used for in modern vegan Mexican‑style cooking?

A

Vegan jackfruit tacos have become popular at plant‑based festivals, family gatherings, and casual taco nights as a cruelty‑free alternative to meat‑based tacos, allowing vegans to enjoy the festive taco experience.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with vegan jackfruit tacos?

A

Serve these tacos alongside Mexican street corn (elote) made vegan, a side of black bean salad, or a fresh pico de gallo. A chilled cucumber‑lime agua fresca makes a refreshing beverage pairing.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan jackfruit tacos?

A

Common errors include not draining the jackfruit thoroughly, using too much liquid sauce that prevents crisping, and over‑baking the taco shells so they become brittle. Follow the draining, simmer, and thin‑layer baking steps for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this vegan jackfruit taco recipe bake the mixture instead of frying it all the way?

A

Baking after simmering removes excess moisture and creates a dry, caramelized exterior that mimics the crispiness of fried carnitas while using less oil and keeping the dish lighter.

technical
Q

Can I make the vegan jackfruit taco filling ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the cooked jackfruit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the jackfruit is done baking?

A

The jackfruit should be browned at the edges, slightly crisp, and the sauce should be reduced to a thick glaze that clings to each strand. It should not be soggy or overly dry.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Irene Athanasiou specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Irene Athanasiou focuses on plant‑based, vegan recipes that are approachable for home cooks, often featuring comfort foods, quick meals, and creative uses of whole‑food ingredients.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Irene Athanasiou's approach to vegan Mexican cooking differ from other vegan cooking channels?

A

Irene Athanasiou emphasizes simple, ingredient‑light techniques and often incorporates Mediterranean flavor sensibilities, while still honoring the bold spices of Mexican cuisine. Her videos prioritize clear step‑by‑step guidance and minimal equipment.

channel

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