Vegan Tacos

Why are avocados called a "superfood"? In addition to the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that they contain, they're also high in HDL, or "good cholesterol". HDL prevents cardiovascular diseases, like atherosclerosis and stroke, by picking up deposits of cholesterol in the blood vessels. Avocados are also a yummy taco ingredient. Check out this vegan taco recipe that Jeanine (@loveandlemons) shared!

Jamaican Jerk Seasoning:

• 1½ teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sweet or hot paprika
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Ingredients:

Mango Avocado Salsa:

• 2 cups peeled and diced mango, about 2 medium
• 1 medium ripe avocado, diced
• ¾ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ½ cup cilantro, finely chopped
• Sea salt

Jackfruit:

• 2 (20-ounce) cans jackfruit in brine or water
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 scallions, white and light green parts, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 habanero, serrano or jalapeño pepper, minced
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or agave nectar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ¼ cup tamari
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 12 corn tortillas, charred or warmed

Instructions:

1. Make the mango-avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the mango, avocado, onion, cucumber, orange juice, lime juice, and cilantro and mix gently. Season to taste with salt.
2. Make the Jamaican Jerk Seasoning. Combine all of the spices together in a small bowl.
3. Prepare the jackfruit: Drain the canned jackfruit and lightly rinse under water, shaking off excess water. Use your fingers to remove any thick cores and pull the pieces apart so that it resembles shredded pork.
4. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the the scallions and cook until browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the garlic, ginger, and chile pepper and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add all of the Jamaican jerk seasoning, stir to coat, and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until very fragrant.
5. Add the shredded jackfruit, coconut sugar, tomato paste, tamari, and lime juice. Stir well. Pour in 1/2 cup water and mix again. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the jackfruit with the tortillas and mango avocado salsa.

Why We Love This…

✔ Plant-based protein and fiber: Jackfruit and avocado provide fiber to support digestion and plant-based nutrients for sustained energy.
✔ Vitamin- and antioxidant-rich: Mango, avocado, red onion, cucumber, and fresh herbs supply vitamins A, C, K, potassium, and phytonutrients that support immunity and cellular health.
✔ Heart-healthy fats: Avocado and olive oil deliver monounsaturated fats for cardiovascular and brain health.
✔ Anti-inflammatory and metabolism-supporting spices: Ginger, garlic, habanero, allspice, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg provide compounds that reduce inflammation and support immune function.
✔ Blood-sugar–friendly natural sweeteners: Coconut sugar or agave nectar provide gentle, plant-based sweetness along with trace minerals.
✔ Flavorful and nutrient-dense: A balance of sweet, spicy, and herbaceous flavors makes this a colorful, satisfying, whole-food meal.
✔ Gluten-free and vegan: Naturally plant-based, gluten-free, and packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Like this recipe? Then you'll love these Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas!