Crispy jackfruit (chick'n)
Crispy jackfruit (chick'n) is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by By Nature Food on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr
Cost: $5.42 total, $1.36 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) Young Green Jackfruit in Brine (Drain and rinse thoroughly; squeeze out as much liquid as possible)
- 1 cup Vegetable Stock (Low‑sodium; can use homemade or store‑bought)
- 2 teaspoons All‑Purpose Seasoning (A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Finely grated)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Leaves stripped from stems)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For tossing before baking)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
Instructions
Drain and Dry the Jackfruit
Open the cans, pour the jackfruit into a colander, rinse under cold water, then press with a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Time: PT5M
Shred the Jackfruit
Using two forks, pull apart the jackfruit pieces into shreds that resemble pulled pork strands.
Time: PT3M
Prepare the Flavor Base
In a large skillet, combine the shredded jackfruit, vegetable stock, all‑purpose seasoning, grated ginger, thyme, and salt. Stir to coat evenly.
Time: PT2M
Simmer Until Moisture Evaporates
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the jackfruit looks dry and slightly caramelized.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: Medium heat
Season and Oil the Jackfruit
Remove the skillet from heat, drizzle olive oil over the jackfruit, and toss to coat. This helps achieve crispy edges in the oven.
Time: PT2M
Bake for Crispy Edges
Spread the seasoned jackfruit in a single layer on a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Bake in a pre‑heated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the edges are golden and crisp.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 400°F
Serve
Remove from oven, let rest for 2 minutes, then serve hot in tacos, sandwiches, or over rice.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 2 g
- Fiber
- 5 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free (if using gluten‑free seasoning), Dairy‑Free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Young Green Jackfruit in Brine: Hearts of palm, Shredded oyster mushrooms
- Instead of Vegetable Stock: Mushroom broth, Water with a pinch of salt
- Instead of All‑Purpose Seasoning: BBQ rub, Cajun seasoning
- Instead of Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger (1/4 tsp), Ginger paste
- Instead of Fresh Thyme: Dried thyme (1/3 tsp), Oregano
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado oil, Canola oil
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Colander
- Clean Kitchen Towel
- Large Skillet or Saucepan
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (optional)
- Oven
- Forks (for shredding)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Squeezing out excess moisture from the canned jackfruit
- Simmering until the liquid fully evaporates
- Baking at high heat to develop crispy edges
Chef Tips from the Video
- For a smoky flavor, add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika with the all‑purpose seasoning.
- Shred the jackfruit with two forks rather than a food processor to keep a meaty texture.
- Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar after baking for a tangy bite.
Troubleshooting
Jackfruit remains soggy after baking.
Make sure you have squeezed out as much moisture as possible and simmered until the liquid is fully evaporated before baking.
Jackfruit dries out too much and becomes tough.
Reduce simmer time slightly and add an extra tablespoon of vegetable stock during the simmer stage.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe bag for up to 2 months; reheat in oven for best texture.
Room temperature: Not recommended; may spoil quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the jackfruit fully, then store in the fridge; reheat in a hot skillet or oven to restore crispness.
- The seasoned jackfruit can be frozen raw (after squeezing) and cooked directly from frozen, adding an extra 5‑7 minutes to bake time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of vegan pulled pork made with jackfruit in American plant‑based cuisine?
Jackfruit has become a popular meat substitute in American vegan cooking because its fibrous texture mimics shredded pork or chicken. The trend grew alongside the rise of plant‑based diets in the 2010s, offering a sustainable, low‑cost alternative to animal meat.
What are the traditional regional variations of pulled pork in the United States and how does the jackfruit version compare?
Traditional pulled pork originates from the Southern United States, where pork shoulder is slow‑cooked with BBQ sauce. The jackfruit version swaps the meat for fruit but keeps the same seasoning profile, providing a similar smoky, sweet flavor while being completely plant‑based.
How is vegan pulled pork with jackfruit traditionally served in American BBQ gatherings?
It is commonly served on soft buns, in tacos, or over coleslaw‑topped plates, often accompanied by vegan BBQ sauce, pickles, and a side of baked beans or corn on the cob.
What occasions or celebrations is vegan pulled pork with jackfruit typically associated with in American vegan culture?
It is popular at summer barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving or Fourth of July picnics where guests look for a hearty, meat‑free centerpiece.
What other American dishes pair well with vegan pulled jackfruit from By Nature Food?
Great pairings include vegan mac and cheese, corn on the cob, coleslaw, baked sweet potatoes, and a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
What makes the jackfruit pulled pork from By Nature Food special compared to other vegan pork alternatives?
By Nature Food emphasizes squeezing out excess brine and a short high‑heat bake to create crispy edges, giving the jackfruit a texture that closely resembles the caramelized crust of traditional pulled pork.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan pulled pork with jackfruit from By Nature Food?
Common errors include not removing enough moisture, over‑cooking the simmer stage which can make the jackfruit mushy, and overcrowding the baking sheet which prevents crisping.
Why does this jackfruit pulled pork recipe use a simmer step before baking instead of baking directly?
Simmering allows the jackfruit to absorb the seasoning and evaporate the brine, ensuring the flavor penetrates fully. Baking afterward then creates the desired crispy exterior without a soggy interior.
Can I make the vegan pulled pork with jackfruit ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can fully cook the jackfruit, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for two months. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet to regain crispness.
What does the YouTube channel By Nature Food specialize in?
The YouTube channel By Nature Food focuses on simple, wholesome plant‑based recipes that emphasize whole foods, minimal processing, and accessible cooking techniques for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel By Nature Food's approach to vegan cooking differ from other vegan cooking channels?
By Nature Food prioritizes quick, ingredient‑light meals using pantry staples and often highlights sustainability tips, whereas many other vegan channels may rely on specialty products or more elaborate techniques.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
