Jackfruit…hmmmm…it’s an interesting one. Looking at vegetarian blogs and websites, it seems to be all the rage. Cooks are using it as a meat replacement in A LOT of things. But, looking at the fruit itself – well, it’s kinda scary! I have seen a lot of recipes for bar-b-que pulled “pork” sandwiches made with jackfruit, so I decided to dive right in and try it!
I initially was looking for a canned jackfruit so I could add my own sauce. I could have sworn that Trader Joe’s had one, but when I went there I came up empty! At Target (which, by the way, is really stepping up their vegan/vegetarian game recently. They have so many cool products that used to only be found at places like Whole Foods. Way to go, Target!!!) I saw a package of pre-seasoned bar-b-que jackfruit and gave that one a try.
There was basically no work involved with turning this jackfruit into a meal. You just place it in a pan (with oil or not!) and brown it until it heats all the way through. I served them on Hawaiian rolls (yum!) with pickled onions. To round out the meal I made tots and Brussels Sprouts.
Overall opinion of the Upton Naturals jackfruit???? It was a bit spicy – even for me. Texture took a little getting used to, but it wasn’t bad. Looking on their website they have a ton of different flavors of jackfruit that I would be willing to give a try. It definitely made me think that I was eating traditional pulled pork – which is a win! I think I might also try finding an unseasoned jackfruit and using my own sauce… so many possibilities!
right turn ahead 