Unlock the Versatility of Canned Jackfruit: 5 Easy and Delicious Recipes to Try Today

Canned jackfruit is a versatile ingredient that has been gaining popularity among both vegans and meat-eaters alike. This tropical fruit, native to Southeast Asia, has a unique texture that closely resembles pulled pork or shredded chicken when cooked. It is harvested when it is still green and unripe, making it an excellent meat substitute for those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet.

What is Canned Jackfruit and Why is it Versatile?

Canned jackfruit is simply young green jackfruit that has been harvested and preserved in a can. The fruit itself is quite large, with a spiky green skin and a sweet, tropical flavor when ripe. However, when canned, the jackfruit takes on a more neutral taste, making it the perfect canvas for a variety of flavors and seasonings.

One of the reasons canned jackfruit is so versatile is its unique texture. The fibrous flesh of the fruit easily shreds when cooked, giving it a pulled or shredded meat-like consistency. This makes it an excellent substitute for pulled pork, chicken, or beef in a wide range of recipes, from sandwiches and tacos to curries and stir-fries.

Health Benefits of Canned Jackfruit

In addition to its versatility in the kitchen, canned jackfruit also offers a range of health benefits. It is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those watching their weight or looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. Jackfruit is also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Furthermore, canned jackfruit is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, while potassium and magnesium are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Additionally, jackfruit contains antioxidants that can help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Common Uses of Canned Jackfruit in Cooking

Canned jackfruit can be used in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. Its mild flavor makes it the perfect base for a wide range of seasonings and sauces. Some common uses of canned jackfruit in cooking include:

1. Sandwiches and Sliders: BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders are a popular option for those looking to recreate the classic pulled pork sandwich without the meat. Simply cook the canned jackfruit with your favorite BBQ sauce and pile it onto a bun with some coleslaw for a delicious and satisfying meal.
2. Tacos and Burritos: Jackfruit tacos with avocado salsa are a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional meat tacos. Simply sauté the jackfruit with some onions and spices, then pile it onto a tortilla with avocado salsa, lettuce, and your favorite toppings.
3. Curries and Stir-Fries: Jackfruit curry with coconut milk is a rich and creamy dish that is packed with flavor. The jackfruit soaks up the aromatic spices and coconut milk, creating a hearty and satisfying curry that can be served with rice or naan bread.
4. Nachos and Quesadillas: Jackfruit “pulled pork” nachos are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that is sure to satisfy. Simply cook the jackfruit with some spices and pile it onto a bed of tortilla chips with melted cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
5. Enchiladas and Casseroles: Jackfruit and black bean enchiladas are a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic Mexican dish. Simply roll the jackfruit and black bean filling into tortillas, top with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Recipe 1: BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup of BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns
• Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it starts to brown slightly.
3. Using a fork or potato masher, shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork.
4. Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir until the jackfruit is evenly coated. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Toast the slider buns and pile the BBQ pulled jackfruit onto each bun. Top with coleslaw if desired.

Recipe 2: Jackfruit Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas
• Avocado salsa (see below)
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped cilantro

Avocado Salsa:

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, diced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet along with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the jackfruit starts to brown slightly.
3. Using a fork or potato masher, shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork.
4. For the avocado salsa, combine the diced avocado, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mash slightly with a fork to combine.
5. Warm the tortillas and fill each one with the pulled jackfruit, avocado salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.

Recipe 3: Jackfruit Curry with Coconut Milk

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 1 cup of vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or naan bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the drained jackfruit to the pot along with the curry powder and turmeric. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, until the jackfruit is tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve the jackfruit curry over cooked rice or with naan bread.

Recipe 4: Jackfruit “Pulled Pork” Nachos

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet along with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the jackfruit starts to brown slightly.
3. Using a fork or potato masher, shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with the shredded jackfruit and shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

Recipe 5: Jackfruit and Black Bean Enchiladas

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of enchilada sauce
• 8 tortillas
• Shredded cheese
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet along with the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the jackfruit starts to brown slightly.
3. Using a fork or potato masher, shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork.
4. Add the black beans to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through. Remove from heat.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Fill each tortilla with a scoop of the jackfruit and black bean filling. Roll up and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and top with chopped cilantro.

Conclusion: Unlocking the Versatility of Canned Jackfruit

Canned jackfruit is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Its unique texture and neutral flavor make it the perfect substitute for meat in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re a vegan looking for new plant-based options or a meat-eater looking to incorporate more variety into your diet, canned jackfruit is worth a try.

From BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders to jackfruit and black bean enchiladas, there are endless possibilities for delicious meals using canned jackfruit. So why not give it a try? Unlock the versatility of canned jackfruit and discover a whole new world of flavors and textures in your cooking.

CTA: Try one of these delicious canned jackfruit recipes today and unlock the versatility of this amazing ingredient in your kitchen!