30 Deliciously Savory Vegetarian and Vegan Jackfruit Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Carmen Eldridge

October 23, 2025

Surprisingly, the humble jackfruit has gained recognition in recent years for its incredible versatility as a meat substitute. This tropical fruit tree is native to Africa, Asia, and South America, where it’s cultivated for its unique stringy inner flesh. The ability of jackfruit to mimic the texture and flavor of pulled pork when cooked or eaten raw makes it an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet.

Specifically, vegetarians and vegans will find that incorporating jackfruit into their meals is easier than ever, thanks to a wealth of recipes available online.

Easy Vegan Jackfruit Tacos

Easy Vegan Jackfruit Tacos

Brimming with flavor and convenience, these vegan tacos are an excellent option for a quick and delicious meal. Boasting jackfruit as the main ingredient, they’re cooked in a variety of seasonings and spices to replicate the taste and texture of chicken. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to customize it with your preferred fillings, such as avocado, onion, cilantro, and lime.

Whether served on their own or paired with other tapas dishes, these tacos make for an effortless Mexican-inspired meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.

BBQ Jackfruit Pulled Pork

BBQ Jackfruit Pulled Pork

Slow-cooked jackfruit is often considered one of the most convincing plant-based alternatives to traditional BBQ pulled pork. The similarity in texture between shredded jackfruit and shredded meat is undeniable, making it a great option for those looking to replicate the taste without much fuss. To prepare this dish, simply cook the shredded jackfruit with some olive oil, onions, garlic, oregano, and your favorite vegan barbecue sauce.

Serve the resulting mixture inside fluffy white buns, accompanied by any sides you like – coleslaw (which can easily be adapted to a vegan version) or crispy fries being popular choices.

BBQ Jackfruit Loaded Fries

BBQ Jackfruit Loaded Fries

Keeping in mind that traditional BBQ pulled pork can be easily replicated using jackfruit, why not take it up a notch by transforming it into a mouth-watering loaded fries recipe? This vegan version of the classic comfort food is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for a busy weeknight meal.

Additionally, the instructions included in this recipe allow you to create your own homemade vegan coleslaw, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the loaded fries. Whether served as a standalone dish or paired with a barbecue, these loaded fries are sure to impress! Serve them alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying and filling meal.

Vegan Duck Pancakes With Jackfruit

Vegan Duck Pancakes With Jackfruit

Elevating your meal game is easy with versatile ingredients like jackfruit! One of its greatest uses is to create a plant-based version of traditional Chinese duck pancakes. With its tender texture when pulled apart, jackfruit perfectly mimics the shredded duck used in this classic dish. To replicate the authentic flavor of real duck pancakes, simply fry the jackfruit with a blend of five spice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.

This aromatic mixture will infuse the jackfruit with all the necessary flavors to satisfy your cravings. Finally, assemble the pancakes by wrapping the fried jackfruit in delicate wrappers alongside sliced cucumber, scallions, and coriander for a delightful and authentic taste experience.

Jackfruit Chili

Jackfruit Chili

Finding comfort in a warm and nourishing bowl of chili is a universal pleasure, and this vegan jackfruit chili recipe is the perfect way to experience it, especially during the fall and winter seasons when the crisp air and cozy atmosphere call for something rich and satisfying. This recipe’s blend of warming spices and protein-packed black beans makes it an ideal choice for a chilly evening, and its simplicity means that you can have it ready in just under an hour, all from one pot!

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal to fill the kids up with hearty goodness or want to treat yourself to a comforting bowl after a long day, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. You can enjoy it on its own, paired with a chunk of crusty bread, served over a bed of fluffy rice, or even nestled in a baked potato – the possibilities are endless!

Vegan Jackfruit Tuna Salad

Vegan Jackfruit Tuna Salad

Making a beloved sandwich staple like tuna salad is achievable in a plant-based form. This innovative recipe substitutes chickpeas and jackfruit as key ingredients, resulting in a protein-rich filling that closely resembles traditional tuna salad. The process of preparing the vegan tuna salad is straightforward – simply blend all the ingredients together in a food processor to create a delicious and satisfying filling perfect for lunches.

To take it to the next level, consider adding your favorite vegetables and spices to enhance the flavor of this versatile dish.

Pot Pie With Jackfruit

Pot Pie With Jackfruit

Among the many comforting and surprisingly healthy dishes out there, the humble pot pie stands out as a great option for a meatless meal alternative. Rather than using chicken, consider swapping it with jackfruit – a delicious and versatile ingredient that’s perfect for vegan diets. This recipe is also an excellent way to get your kids to eat their vegetables, with the addition of mushrooms, leeks, and bell peppers providing a nutritious boost.

While this is a vegan recipe, you can easily modify it to include a creamy sauce if you still consume dairy products. Serve the pot pie alongside a plate of fluffy mashed potatoes and steaming hot vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Vegan Korean Fried Jackfruit

Vegan Korean Fried Jackfruit

Highlighting the diversity of Asian cuisine, this vegan Korean fried jackfruit recipe is an excellent addition to any meal plan. The dish features a sweet and sour flavor profile achieved through the combination of gochujang, rice vinegar, and other ingredients in the Korean sauce, resulting in a sticky and pleasantly spicy finish. Serve the crispy fried jackfruit on a bed of steaming hot rice, garnished with sesame seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Jackfruit Pancakes

Jackfruit Pancakes

Bringing a tropical twist to traditional pancakes, jackfruit can be used to create a delicious and healthy breakfast option. Jackfruit is rich in vitamin C, making it an excellent addition to a morning meal. The batter for these pancakes is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring only a bit of time to allow it to set properly before cooking. Once cooked, top with your favorite pancake toppings such as yogurt, fresh fruit, or even a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.

Creamy Jackfruit Curry

Creamy Jackfruit Curry

People often assume that making a delicious curry requires a lot of effort and exotic ingredients, but that’s not necessarily true. The fact that you can make a curry with virtually anything, including jackfruit, is a testament to the versatility of this dish. The meat-like texture of jackfruit makes for a filling and comforting curry for vegetarians and vegans alike – especially when you’re craving something meaty and satisfying.

This curry recipe is super creamy and provides just the right amount of spice to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you serve it on a bed of fluffy rice or with naan bread, the combination is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Vegan Jackfruit Gyros

Vegan Jackfruit Gyros

Veggie lovers, rejoice! Greek cuisine has never been more accessible with this mouth-watering vegan jackfruit gyros recipe. The star of the show is undoubtedly the jackfruit, which serves as an impeccable substitute for traditional meats like pork or chicken, especially when crisped to perfection in a hot skillet. For an even more indulgent experience, take the liberty of allowing the filling to marinate overnight, enabling the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.

Once you’re ready to serve, consider pairing the gyros with some homemade potato fries and a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce.

Kentucky Fried Jackfruit

Kentucky Fried Jackfruit

Heeding those pesky meat cravings can be a challenge for new vegetarians and vegans alike, but fret not, we have just the solution – a mouth-watering Kentucky fried jackfruit recipe that’s sure to hit the spot. This delectable dish is an uncanny replica of fried chicken, minus the meat, making it an ideal substitute for satisfying those lingering cravings.

Not only does the jackfruit impress with its chicken-like texture, but the preparation process is also remarkably straightforward and free from the risk of foodborne illness that often accompanies traditional fried foods. Serve it on its own or pair it with some crispy homemade fries to take your meal to the next level.

BBQ Jackfruit Stuffed Sweet Potato

BBQ Jackfruit Stuffed Sweet Potato

Looking at the humble sweet potato, it’s clear why it has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. Baked sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile, allowing for a wide range of fillings, from the classic cheese and sour cream to more adventurous options like BBQ jackfruit. The sweetness of the potato pairs perfectly with the tangy flavor of the BBQ sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors that’s both savory and slightly spicy.

This recipe is also impressively easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or lunch. Serve alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition, and top with a dollop of creamy avocado and a drizzle of yogurt tahini dressing for a truly satisfying experience.

BBQ Jackfruit Pizza

BBQ Jackfruit Pizza

Gathering inspiration from international cuisines can lead to some amazing culinary creations. A jackfruit pizza, for instance, offers a meaty flavor profile without the need for actual meat. The sweet and tangy BBQ jackfruit topping pairs wonderfully with vegan (or non-vegan) mozzarella cheese, making for a guilt-free and indulgent pizza experience that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

This recipe is perfect for individuals looking to expand their cooking skills, as it not only includes the instructions on how to make vegan mozzarella from scratch but also provides an opportunity to experiment with new flavors and techniques. Whether enjoyed on its own or accompanied by some crispy homemade fries, this jackfruit pizza is sure to become a staple in your household.

Jackfruit Christmas Dinner

Jackfruit Christmas Dinner

Sometimes, traditional holiday meals can feel restrictive or overwhelming, especially for those looking to reduce their meat intake. Fortunately, innovative alternatives like jackfruit can breathe new life into classic recipes. In this context, a jackfruit-based Christmas dinner recipe offers an enticing solution for those seeking to cut back on meat consumption.

The process of preparing jackfruit is remarkably efficient, requiring far less time than traditional methods and surprisingly easy to execute. To complement the dish, consider pairing it with your preferred roast vegetables and finish off the meal with a rich homemade gravy – just be sure to opt for non-dairy ingredients if adhering to a vegan diet.

Classic Vegan Chicken Salad

Classic Vegan Chicken Salad

A popular alternative to traditional chicken salad is now within reach for those following a plant-based diet. This innovative recipe cleverly employs jackfruit as a substitute for chicken, paired with an assortment of nutrient-rich vegetables such as red onion, dill pickles, and celery, resulting in a revitalizing and crunchy sandwich filling that’s sure to satisfy even the most ardent meat lovers.

Perfect for appeasing those lingering cravings without compromising on vegan principles, this recipe is ideal for enjoying on its own or as an accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Serve it in a crusty baguette, toasted bread, or atop a bed of crisp salad leaves. To ensure the salad remains fresh and intact, store it in a tightly sealed container within the refrigerator.

Vegan Jackfruit Ribs

Vegan Jackfruit Ribs

Creating a convincing plant-based version of traditional ribs can be a challenging task, as replicating the tender and fall-off-the-bone texture is not easy to achieve. Fortunately, jackfruit ribs offer a solution that surpasses their meaty counterparts in terms of texture. This recipe leverages the unique properties of jackfruit and seitan to craft a vegan substitute for ribs that is both flavorful and satisfying.

While it may require some effort to prepare, the end result is well worth the extra time and attention, making it an excellent option for those looking for a meat-free alternative.

Hawaiian Jackfruit Pineapple Kebabs

Hawaiian Jackfruit Pineapple Kebabs

Oftentimes, what elevates a barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary is the presence of unique and flavorful dishes that leave a lasting impression on guests. Take Hawaiian jackfruit pineapple kebabs, for example – a refreshing and delicious side dish that combines the savory flavors of fried jackfruit in BBQ sauce with the sweetness of grilled pineapple. The addition of tempeh bacon adds an extra layer of meaty flavor, making this recipe a standout at any outdoor gathering.

Whether served as a side dish to complement a barbecue or on a bed of rice for a tasty weeknight meal, these kebabs are sure to delight both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Vegan Pulled Jackfruit Bao Buns

Vegan Pulled Jackfruit Bao Buns

Known for their fluffy texture and savory fillings, bao buns are a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit vegan diets. One popular variation is using pulled jackfruit as the filling, which not only offers a meaty substitute but also brings a depth of flavor to the dish. The combination of tender jackfruit, crunchy vegetables, and peanuts provides an exciting mix of textures and tastes.

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and approachable, even for those new to cooking or looking to try something new. To add an extra layer of convenience, the instructions also cover how to make your own bao buns from scratch, although store-bought versions are always a viable alternative. Whether you choose to serve these buns on their own or as part of a larger Chinese-inspired meal, alongside dishes like noodles or spring rolls, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Vegan Crab Cakes

Vegan Crab Cakes

Making vegan crab cakes has never been easier thanks to the versatility of jackfruit and the essential Old Bay seasoning that’s commonly used in traditional crab cake recipes. This straightforward recipe requires minimal preparation time, clocking in at under an hour, making it an excellent choice as a starter or side dish for any gathering. Serve with a complementary sauce such as vegan tartar or sriracha to elevate the flavors even further.

Crispy Baked Jackfruit Taquitos

Crispy Baked Jackfruit Taquitos

Here’s a delicious alternative to traditional Mexican dishes: vegan taquitos. Typically filled with beef or chicken, these plant-based versions make jackfruit the main attraction. This recipe will guide you through making crispy and flavorful taquitos that pair perfectly with your favorite sauces – whether enjoyed on their own, dipped in guacamole, salsa verde, refried beans, or a dollop of sour cream.

Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas

Crispy Jackfruit Carnitas

Crafted from traditional Mexican cuisine, carnitas are essentially a plant-based version of pulled pork that can be easily replicated by substituting the meat with tender and juicy pulled jackfruit. This recipe boasts simplicity and speed, making it perfect for stuffing into burritos, tacos, enchiladas, burrito bowls, or even enjoying on its own. To achieve the optimal texture, remember to carefully wring out the excess moisture from the jackfruit.

Vegan Teriyaki Jackfruit Bowl

Vegan Teriyaki Jackfruit Bowl

With its mild natural flavor, jackfruit is an ideal ingredient for absorbing flavors effortlessly. This is especially beneficial when creating your own vegan teriyaki stir fry using this recipe, as it brings out the authentic Asian-inspired taste without overpowering it. The result is surprisingly easy to make and has a proven track record of being a crowd favorite. For a well-rounded meal, serve it atop a bed of rice accompanied by steamed carrots and fresh spinach.

Indian Sweet Jackfruit Dessert Balls

Indian Sweet Jackfruit Dessert Balls

Revealing another fascinating aspect of jackfruit is that it’s not only used as a meat substitute in savory dishes but also plays a significant role in various Asian desserts. This Indian dessert recipe showcases the versatility of canned jackfruit in syrup, which lends a natural sweetness to the dish.

By incorporating coconut flour and other key ingredients, the jackfruit can be transformed into crispy fried balls that offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, resulting in an irresistibly sweet treat.

Jackfruit Sago Dessert

Jackfruit Sago Dessert

Just as jackfruits are a versatile fruit, they also make an appearance in a variety of sweet Southeast Asian desserts, including this delightful soup made with nangka (jackfruit) and sago. The coconut-based soup has a creamy texture that’s perfect for warm or cold serving, making it a great way to round off a heavy meal with a refreshing and satisfyingly sweet treat.

Jackfruit Upside-Down Cake

Jackfruit Upside-Down Cake

Keeping with the classic pineapple upside-down cake formula, this recipe substitutes jackfruit as a game-changing alternative. The result is surprisingly similar in taste and sweetness, yet uniquely enhanced by the distinct flavor of jackfruit. It’s a match made in heaven when paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Directions

Select a recipe that catches your attention from the list provided earlier. Next, click on the recipe’s name to be taken directly to its webpage. Once you’re there, carefully collect all the necessary ingredients as per the recipe instructions. After gathering everything needed, proceed with cooking and preparing the meal according to the directions. Finally, take a moment to appreciate your culinary creation and consider leaving a review to help others.

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