If you’ve never cooked with jackfruit before, prepare to be amazed. When cooked down, the immature fruit eventually shreds into tender strands reminiscent of braised beef or pork. Make sure you buy young jackfruit in brine rather than sweet jackfruit in syrup.
Per serving:
For salsa fresca, in large sieve, strain diced tomatoes and let them drain (reserving juice for drinking or for your next soup). In medium bowl, combine remaining salsa ingredients. Stir in drained tomatoes; taste and adjust seasonings. Set aside (or cover and refrigerate until use).
For guacamole, in bowl, mash avocado. Add lime juice, salt, green onions, and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings. Set aside (or cover and refrigerate until use).
For jackfruit carne asada, in small bowl, combine cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
In medium pot set on medium, heat extra-virgin olive oil. When hot, add combined spices along with onion and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, or until onion has softened. Add chopped jackfruit along with broth or water, sugar, and lime juice, and cook, covered, stirring occasionally and separating jackfruit into strands with back of ladle or spatula as it breaks down, about 25 to 30 minutes. Lower heat if jackfruit starts sticking to pot and add 1 Tbsp (15 mL) water as needed. Remove lid and cook off any remaining liquid before serving.
To serve, warm tacos one by one on dry skillet or in warm oven for a few minutes. Place a spoonful of jackfruit on each, followed by salsa fresca, guacamole, shredded cabbage, and cilantro, then a drizzle of coconut crema overtop.
Tips:
This simple dessert celebrates the glory that is the summer strawberry. Don’t feel you have to stick to strawberries here; swapping them for ripe peaches would also make for a stunning ending to any meal. What to gild the lily with? Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Flower power Orange blossom water (also known as orange flower water) is produced by water distillation of the blossoms of a bitter orange tree. Just like rose water, a little goes a long way. So, take care and use just a drop or two, tasting as you go so as not to overwhelm but rather to complement the other flavours in a dish.
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.