Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Jackfruit
Drain both cans of jackfruit and rinse the pieces thoroughly under cold water. Using a sharp knife, cut off the tough core parts from each chunk — it's usually the firm tip of each triangle-shaped piece. Discard those tough bits and keep everything else.
Transfer the trimmed jackfruit to a large bowl. Using two forks (or just your hands, honestly), shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork. It comes apart surprisingly easily once you get going. Set the shredded jackfruit aside.
Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil in your deep pot or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and shallot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Your kitchen should already smell incredible at this point — that's how you know you're on the right track.
Step 3 — Add the Jackfruit
Add the shredded jackfruit to the pot. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. You want every strand of jackfruit to pick up that garlicky, shallot-y goodness before the sauce goes in.
Step 4 — Season and Simmer
Add the tomato paste, coconut sugar, soy sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and water. Hold the salt for now — you'll adjust it at the end. Stir everything together well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, until almost no liquid remains. The jackfruit should look juicy and glossy, but the sauce shouldn't be watery or thin. Remove from heat.
Step 5 — Taste and Adjust
Taste the filling and add salt as needed. Depending on how salty your tomato paste is, you might need the full ¼ teaspoon or just half. Trust your palate here — it knows what a good taco filling should taste like.
Step 6 — Make the Lime Yogurt Sauce
Add the plant-based yogurt, lime zest, minced garlic, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper to a small bowl. Stir until fully combined. Taste and adjust — want it zestier? Add more lime zest. Want it saltier? You know what to do. This sauce takes about two minutes to make and completely elevates the whole taco.
Step 7 — Assemble the Tacos
Warm your tortillas for a few seconds in a hot dry pan, or char them lightly over a gas flame for that smoky, restaurant-style finish. Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of pulled jackfruit, drizzle with a tablespoon of lime yogurt sauce, and top with sliced avocado, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro.
