If you’re new to jackfruit or just looking for a new plant-based dinner idea, you’re in for a treat. This blog post covers How to Make Delicious Tacos with Canned Jackfruit, and trust me — it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re trying jackfruit for the first time or you’re already a fan of plant-based cooking, these pulled jackfruit tacos are healthy, full of flavor, and totally satisfying.
Why Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit known for its fibrous, meat-like texture. When young green jackfruit (not ripe!) is canned in water or brine, it becomes an amazing vegan alternative to pulled pork or shredded chicken. It’s also:
Low in calories
High in fiber
Packed with antioxidants
If you’ve been searching for jackfruit recipes that are easy, healthy, and satisfying, this one’s for you.
Where to Find Canned Jackfruit
Canned or tinned jackfruit can now be found in most grocery stores in the U.S., often in the international foods aisle. You can also find it online. Make sure to get young green jackfruit in water or brine, not syrup. Syrupy jackfruit is sweet and meant for desserts — not tacos!
What Does Pulled Jackfruit Taste Like?
Jackfruit itself has a mild flavor, which makes it perfect for soaking up spices and sauces. When cooked right, it shreds just like pulled pork and tastes smoky, savory, and delicious — especially when baked or simmered in flavorful spices.
How to Cook Canned Jackfruit for Tacos (Easy Method)
Let’s break down the steps to make healthy jackfruit tacos that taste amazing and are perfect for weeknight dinners, summer BBQs, or even a fun Cinco de Mayo feast.
Ingredients for Pulled Jackfruit Filling
(Makes about 10 tacos)
2 cans (20 oz each) of young green jackfruit in water or brine
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground coriander
Pinch of cinnamon and ground cloves (optional but amazing)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1-2 tsp chili powder or sambal oelek (for heat)
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp maple syrup (for balance)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp liquid smoke (or more smoked paprika if you don’t have it)
Salt & pepper to taste
How to Cook Canned Jackfruit for Tacos in Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Drain and prep the jackfruit:
Open the cans and rinse the jackfruit well. Cut off any tough core pieces (they’re edible but don’t shred well). Use your fingers or a fork to pull the jackfruit into shreds.
Sauté the aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and slightly golden. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Add spices & paste:
Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, tomato paste, and chili paste or powder. Cook for a minute until everything is fragrant.
Add the jackfruit & liquids:
Toss in the shredded jackfruit, soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, and liquid smoke. Stir well and cook for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Bake it for texture (this is key!):
Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Spread the jackfruit mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. This gives the jackfruit a lightly crisp, chewy texture—just like pulled meat.
Tip: This is the best method if you’re wondering how to cook canned jackfruit for tacos in oven. The baking step adds that delicious texture you can’t get on the stovetop alone.
Sure, you can use store-bought tortillas, but if you want to make your own, here’s a simple recipe:
Taco Dough:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¾ tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
~½ cup boiling water
Mix everything together, knead until smooth, rest the dough for 30 minutes, then roll out and cook on a dry skillet for about 1-2 minutes per side. Keep warm with a damp towel.
For more easy canned jackfruit recipes, these tortillas pair well with any filling — try them with BBQ jackfruit, jackfruit enchiladas, or jackfruit quesadillas.
Easy Tomato Salsa
You’ll need:
4-5 ripe tomatoes, diced
1 spring onion, sliced
1-2 tsp lime juice
Salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar
Mix it all up for a refreshing, juicy salsa to top your tacos.
Toppings & Assembly
Here’s what we recommend for your pulled jackfruit tacos:
Shredded romaine lettuce
Tomato salsa
Quick-pickled red onions (adds tang!)
Fresh cilantro (a must!)
Vegan sour cream or avocado crema
Assemble:
Scoop the pulled jackfruit into your warm tortillas, top with all the fixings, and enjoy immediately!
Why This Pulled Jackfruit Recipe Works
Healthy: Low in fat, high in fiber
Flavorful: Smoky, spicy, and a little sweet
Easy: Uses canned jackfruit, pantry spices, and simple prep
Vegan & vegetarian-friendly
Great for meal prep – the jackfruit gets even better the next day!
Whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday, Cinco de Mayo, or just want a break from your usual dinner routine, this is one of those easy canned jackfruit recipes that will become a regular in your kitchen.
More Tinned Jackfruit Recipes to Try
If you’re enjoying jackfruit, here are a few other ideas:
BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders
Jackfruit nachos
Jackfruit burrito bowls
Jackfruit chili
Jackfruit curry (inspired by Jackfruit recipes Jamie Oliver style)
Final Thoughts
Learning how to cook canned jackfruit for tacos is a game-changer if you’re looking for easy, plant-based meals that don’t skimp on flavor or texture. Baking the jackfruit after simmering is the secret to getting that meaty, pulled-pork feel without any meat at all.
So grab a couple of cans of young green jackfruit and get cooking. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just jackfruit-curious, these tacos are sure to impress.
