As we gear up for another season of burgers, steaks, and hot dogs, it can feel pretty isolating as a plant-based eater. Whether our summer festivities include camping, going to the cottage, or having a cookout in a park, the menu is pretty much always the same: meat, meat, and more meat. Who knew foregoing animal products meant missing out on soaking up the summer sun with your closest friends and family?
Luckily, however, this time of year doesn’t have to be a paradise only meat-lovers can enjoy. Every year we get better at perfecting beyond meat recipes, finding substitutes, and discovering the true deliciousness of plant-based eating. And, among those discoveries, one of the absolute best finds has been how versatile jackfruit can be! Over the last few years, this remarkable fruit has been growing in popularity in the West among plant-based eaters, and if you’ve never leaned on its adaptability, now’s the time to start.
With its mild flavour, young jackfruit is an excellent base to carry many different meals. From vegan burgers to vegan pulled pork, there are just SO many ways you can use it. If you’re a bit intimidated by the spiky fruit itself, fear not: there are canned versions available! In fact, you can shop Native Forest’s young jackfruit at The Sweet Potato and try it for yourself. Their jackfruit is picked before its starches change into sugar, making its neutral flavour and “meaty” texture an excellent alternative for vegans.
If you’re looking for some sweet summertime relief on a plant-based diet, here are some meal suggestions using jackfruit.
Five jackfruit recipes that prove BBQ season is doable on a plant-based diet
Vegan Jackfruit Portobello Chickpea Burgers
It doesn’t get better than these burgers. Using a mix of spices, jackfruit and portobello mushrooms, this recipe allows you to make something that would fit right on any grill.
Find the recipe here.
Vegan Honey Glazed Jackfruit Wings
In need of a plant-based option for your next picnic? Just wing it! Marinated and fried until crispy and tossed in a light, salty glaze, what’s not to love?
Find the recipe here.
Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Nachos
What is a hangout without a plate of nachos as the centrepiece? Perfectly seasoned and an all-around classic, these nachos leave very little to be desired.
Find the recipe here.
Vegan Jackfruit BBQ Veggie Burgers
Sure, it’s not a pattie you can simply throw on the grill, but it makes up for the minor inconvenience with its pure, delicious BBQ flavour.
Find the recipe here.
Vegan Buffalo Chicken Dip
Whether you’re watching the big game, an award show, or simply just hanging out in the backyard with a group of friends, this creamy buffalo “chicken” dip is the stuff of dreams!
Find the recipe here.
So the next time someone invites you over for some classic backyard barbecuing, you know what to do. Pick up Native Forest’s young jackfruit at The Sweet Potato in the Junction neighbourhood of Toronto, and have yourself a grand old time!