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Gorilla Jackfruit Tacos

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Gorilla Jackfruit Tacos are a bold, plant-based take on street-style tacos, designed to deliver big, satisfying flavors without meat. Jackfruit has become a popular meat substitute thanks to its fibrous texture, which closely resembles pulled pork when cooked. In this recipe, the name “Gorilla” reflects the dish’s robust, unapologetically bold seasoning and hearty bite—making it appealing not only to vegetarians and vegans, but also to meat-lovers looking for something exciting and different.

In this recipe, young green jackfruit is slow-simmered or sautéed with smoky spices, chilies, garlic, and onions until tender and shreddable. It is then caramelized to develop deep flavor and a slightly crispy edge, mimicking the texture of slow-cooked meat. Served in warm tortillas and topped with fresh slaw, pickled onions, salsa, or avocado crema, these tacos deliver a dynamic contrast of smoky, spicy, tangy, and fresh elements in every bite.

Perfect for taco nights, casual gatherings, or plant-forward menus, Gorilla Jackfruit Tacos are hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Their bold seasoning and satisfying texture make them a standout dish that doesn’t feel like a compromise. This recipe showcases how plant-based ingredients can be transformed into crave-worthy, comfort-driven meals with attitude and flair.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 white onion, diced
  • 2 14-ounce cans of jackfruit
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you want really spicy)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 8 radishes thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, shredded
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, destemmed
  • 1 cup fresh salsa
  • 2 avocados, peeled, sliced
  • 8 small corn tortillas

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and then sauté garlic and onions until they start to brown on the edges.
  2. While the onions cook, drain the jackfruit. Cut the core off of the jackfruit chunks. Using two forks, shred the jackfruit meat, removing the seed pods.
  3. Place the shredded jackfruit, cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne, and salt to the pan.  Add the water.  Simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Heat the corn tortillas.  It is best to quickly grill them but warming over the stove.  Alternatively, you can wrap them in a slightly dampened paper towel and heat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
  5. Assemble the tacos using the spicy jackmeat mixture, topped with avocado slices, radish slices, shredded carrot, and cilantro.
  • Author: Recipe Maker
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes Vegan
  • Cuisine: Mexican Recipes Indian Recipes
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