Jackfruit Taquitos

Gluten-free, Nut-free option, Soy-free option

You know those premade taquitos you can buy in the freezer section of the grocery store? Well, we grew up on those, and to be honest, this homemade recipe puts them to shame. Seasoned jackfruit and homemade Mozzarella stuffed inside crispy corn tortillas make for the perfect appetizer. Dunk these into homemade Cashew Cream, Fresh and Easy Guacamole or Roasted Tomato Salsa.

Jackfruit taquitos are a delightful and savory vegan dish that captures the essence of traditional taquitos without any animal products. These taquitos are not only delicious but also easy to make. The recipe uses young jackfruit, which mimics the texture of shredded meat and absorbs the flavors of the spices and seasonings beautifully.

In this recipe, young jackfruit is cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of seasonings, including Taco Seasoning and nutritional yeast, which add a rich and savory flavor profile. Canned chopped green chiles and vegan Mozzarella shreds contribute a subtle heat and creamy texture to the filling.

The taquitos are rolled in fresh corn tortillas, making them naturally gluten-free, and then fried to golden perfection, resulting in a satisfying crunch with each bite. They can be served with a variety of accompaniments like diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, Roasted Tomato Salsa, Cashew Cream, and guacamole for a burst of flavors and textures.

Jackfruit taquitos are perfect for parties, game nights, or simply as a snack or appetizer any time you’re craving something deliciously savory. Whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to explore plant-based cuisine, these taquitos are sure to satisfy your taste buds with their hearty and flavorful filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell.

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: 20 to 25 minutes

YIELD: 8 taquitos

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (20-oz [567-g]) can young jackfruit in brine
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• ½ medium-sized white onion, chopped (about ½ cup [80 g])
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, or 2 tsp (6 g) jarred minced garlic
• 1 tbsp (6 g) Taco Seasoning or store-bought
• 1 tbsp (5 g) nutritional yeast
• 2 tbsp (17 g) canned chopped green chiles
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) plain, unsweetened rice milk
• ½ cup (56 g) vegan Mozzarella shreds (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)
• 8 fresh corn tortillas
• Canola oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional)

• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Roasted Tomato Salsa or store-bought salsa of choice
• Cashew Cream or store-bought vegan sour cream (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)
• Fresh and Easy Guacamole or store-bought

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Drain and rinse the jackfruit, then squeeze out as much water as possible using a cheesecloth or clean towel. Chop it into small pieces and set aside.
2. In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the jackfruit and chopped onion. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the taco seasoning, nutritional yeast, canned green chiles, and rice milk to the skillet. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Then, add the vegan Mozzarella shreds and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. To make the tortillas pliable, dampen a paper towel lightly with water. Wrap the tortillas in the damp paper towel, place them on a plate, and microwave for 1 minute.
6. Lay the tortillas flat and evenly distribute the taquito mixture among them, spreading it along the centers but leaving a small gap near the edges. Roll up each tortilla tightly and secure with a toothpick.
7. In a deep saucepan, pot, or deep fryer, heat 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of canola oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Using tongs, carefully place each taquito in the hot oil. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes or until they are lightly browned and crispy, flipping halfway through if necessary.
9. Serve the taquitos garnished with diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro. Provide Roasted Tomato Salsa, Cashew Cream, and guacamole for dipping if desired. Enjoy your delicious vegan taquitos!