Jackfruit shawarma is a vegan twist on a classic dish, perfect for those looking to enjoy a plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor. This vibrant recipe features young jackfruit marinated in shawarma spices, wrapped in fluffy pitas, and loaded with fresh vegetables. To make it, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients: young jackfruit, cilantro, shawarma paste, lime juice, pitas, salt, black pepper, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, tahini sauce, and Harissa.
This dish satisfies your cravings for a hearty dish and introduces a wonderful variety of textures and colors that make for an eye-catching meal. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness, combining the shawarma’s robust spices with the refreshing fresh produce crunch.
Traditional Shawarma vs. Vegan Jackfruit Shawarma
The primary difference lies in the protein source. Traditional shawarma is often made with marinated meats, usually chicken, beef, or lamb, cooked on a rotating spit.
In contrast, jackfruit shawarma uses young green jackfruit as a meat substitute. Jackfruit is known for its unique texture, which can mimic pulled meat when cooked. Here are some key points to note:
- Flavor:
Traditional shawarma is bursting with flavors from spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic.
Jackfruit absorbs marinades well, allowing it to take on similar tastes. - Nutritional Profile:
Traditional shawarma delivers protein and fats but can be high in calories.
Jackfruit is lower in calories and rich in fiber, making it a healthier option. - Preparation Time:
Making traditional shawarma can take hours due to marination and cooking.
Jackfruit shawarma is relatively quick to prepare, especially if using canned jackfruit. - Dietary Restrictions:
Traditional shawarma is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Jackfruit shawarma is a great alternative, allowing more people to enjoy the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of young jackfruit in brine (or water), drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp of shawarma paste
- ⅛ cup of diced cilantro
- ½ tsp of salt
- ¼ tsp of black pepper
- 1 tbsp of lime juice
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup of diced lettuce
- 2 sliced cucumbers
- 2 diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup of sliced red onion
- ¼ cup of tahini sauce (or to taste)
- 2 tsp of harissa (or to taste)
How To Make Jackfruit Shawarma?
- Begin by preheating a non-stick sauté pan over medium heat. This ensures consistent cooking and minimizes sticking.
- Subsequently, prepare the canned jackfruit by draining and thoroughly rinsing it under cold running water to eliminate residual brine. Discard the tough core from each jackfruit piece.
- Using either your fingers or a fork, meticulously shred the jackfruit until a texture reminiscent of pulled meat is achieved.
- Introduce a moderate amount of olive oil to the preheated pan, followed by the shredded jackfruit, shawarma paste, finely chopped cilantro, and seasonings of salt and pepper, finishing with a splash of fresh lime juice. Sauté the mixture for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to develop a rich, browned exterior.
- Concurrently, prepare the pita bread and accompanying garnishes. Halve the pitas and warm them in a preheated oven for a brief period to enhance pliability and warmth.
- Precisely slice cucumbers, dice tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion to prepare the fresh topping components.
- To assemble the shawarma, fill each warmed pita half with the sautéed jackfruit.
- Garnish generously with fresh lettuce, sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
- Complete the assembly by adding a spoonful of tahini sauce and a small amount of harissa to each pita half. Fold the pitas around the filling and serve immediately to enjoy the optimal flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 404 kcal |
Protein | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 76 g |
Fat | 9 g |
Sugars | 4 g |
Sodium | 599 mg |
Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
Toppings and Pairings
Toppings can elevate the flavors. Here are some of my favorites:
- Fresh Vegetables: Adding lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers gives a nice crunch.
- Pickles: I love the tangy kick that pickled onions or mango pickles provide.
For sauces, I recommend:
- Tahini Sauce: Its creaminess complements the jackfruit beautifully (as mentioned above).
- Garlic Sauce: A must for a bold flavor contrast.
Pairing is just as important as the toppings. Here are some options I enjoy:
- Pita Bread: Soft and perfect for wrapping around the shawarma.
- Rice: A side of fragrant rice balances the dish well.
- Fattoush Salad: The freshness of the salad brightens everything up.
When I serve this shawarma, I often include a few herbs. Fresh parsley or mint adds a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lemon can also enhance the overall flavor.
Experiment with these ideas to find your perfect combination!
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not Preparing the Jackfruit Properly: I used to skip marinating the jackfruit. This step is crucial for infusing flavor. Take time to season it well.
- Overcooking the Jackfruit: Cooking it too long can make the texture mushy. I find that a quick sauté works best.
- Using the Wrong Bread: I once chose standard bread instead of pita. Pita complements the shawarma perfectly. Stick to traditional options for an authentic taste.
- Skipping Fresh Toppings: I learned that fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes make a difference. They add crunch and freshness.
- Ignoring Sauces: The sauce elevates the dish significantly. I prefer tahini or garlic sauce for a flavorful kick.
- Rushing the Assembly: Taking my time to layer ingredients makes for a more enjoyable eating experience. A rushed shawarma can feel chaotic and unbalanced.
Conclusion
Jackfruit shawarma stands out as a delicious and unique alternative to traditional shawarma. Its meaty texture makes it a popular choice for those seeking plant-based options.
I love how versatile jackfruit can be. It takes on flavors beautifully, absorbing spices and marinades with ease. This makes each bite flavorful and satisfying.
When preparing it, consider the following:
- Flavor Enhancements: Use spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic for a kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair it with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce.
- Cooking Methods: Grill, roast, or sauté the jackfruit for varied textures.
Sharing this dish with friends can be a fun experience. It’s a great conversation starter and an opportunity to showcase plant-based cooking.
As you’ve read above, fattoush salad is a great accompaniment to this shawarma.
Here is the recipe. Get it now (by clicking the image below):