Delicious and Easy Vegan Jackfruit Tacos with Spicy Mango Salsa
If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both plant-based and packed with zest, look no further than these vegan jackfruit tacos with a zesty spicy mango salsa recipe. Perfectly balancing sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, this dish showcases the versatility of jackfruit—a trending ingredient in plant-based taco ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring jackfruit recipes, these tacos are super easy to make and guaranteed to impress both friends and family.
Ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. The tender, shredded jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled meat, making your easy vegan tacos both satisfying and nutritious. Paired with a fresh and tangy spicy mango salsa, the combination is simply unbeatable. Let’s dive into how to make these refreshing tacos that are great for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Vegan Jackfruit Tacos:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- For the Spicy Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded lettuce, vegan sour cream, lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the jackfruit: Drain and rinse the jackfruit well. Using your hands or two forks, shred the jackfruit, removing any seeds or tough cores.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Cook the jackfruit: Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the jackfruit in the spices.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the jackfruit is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Make the spicy mango salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and season with salt to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes so flavors meld.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a low flame until soft and slightly charred.
- Assemble the tacos: Spoon the jackfruit mixture onto each tortilla. Top with a generous helping of spicy mango salsa and your choice of optional toppings.
- Serve immediately: Serve your vegan jackfruit tacos fresh with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Choose the right jackfruit: Look for young green jackfruit packed in water or brine—not syrup—to get the best savory flavor.
- Shredding technique: Drain the jackfruit thoroughly. Shredding with forks mimics pulled meat texture perfectly.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify the chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
- Use fresh mango: Choose a ripe but firm mango for optimal sweetness and texture in your salsa.
- Make ahead: The spicy mango salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated to deepen the flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 4)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg (varies by jackfruit brand and broth)
Recipe Variations
- BBQ Jackfruit Tacos: Swap out the spices for BBQ sauce and add smoked chipotle powder for a smoky flair.
- Buffalo Style: Coat the cooked jackfruit in vegan buffalo sauce and serve with vegan ranch and celery slices.
- Mexican Street Tacos: Top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and drizzle with fresh lime juice for authentic flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Store any leftover cooked jackfruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The spicy mango salsa also keeps well for about 2 days but is freshest on the day of preparation.
To reheat jackfruit, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Assemble tacos just before serving to keep tortillas fresh and salsa vibrant.
For a fun presentation, serve these tacos at your next party with bowls of toppings like diced avocado, sliced radishes, or pickled jalapeños for guests to customize their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned jackfruit in syrup for this recipe?
It’s best to use young green jackfruit canned in water or brine. Jackfruit in syrup is sweet and will alter the savory flavor of the tacos.
How spicy is the spicy mango salsa?
The salsa has a mild to medium heat depending on the amount of jalapeño you add. You can reduce or omit the jalapeño if you prefer a milder salsa.
Is jackfruit a good source of protein?
Jackfruit has some protein but is not high in protein compared to other sources. To boost protein, consider adding beans or topping with chopped nuts or seeds.
Can I freeze cooked jackfruit for later use?
Yes, cooked jackfruit freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What other toppings work well with these vegan jackfruit tacos?
Try vegan sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, pickled red onions, or shredded lettuce to add more texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These vegan jackfruit tacos with spicy mango salsa are an incredible way to enjoy a plant-based meal bursting with bright and bold flavors. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for anyone looking to spice up their taco nights with innovative and tasty jackfruit recipes. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just trying out easy vegan tacos for the first time, this dish promises a delicious and satisfying experience. Give it a try today and discover why jackfruit is quickly becoming a favorite meat alternative in kitchens worldwide!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 4