BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Wraps

Featured in: Main Dishes

Shredded young green jackfruit is cooked with olive oil, onion, garlic, and fragrant spices including smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. After simmering in flavorful vegan BBQ sauce, the tender jackfruit mixture is spooned into crisp butter lettuce leaves. Topped with crunchy shredded carrots, thinly sliced red onion and cabbage, and fresh cilantro, this dish offers a vibrant, plant-based take on smoky BBQ flavors. A squeeze of lime adds a bright finish. Simple to prepare and naturally gluten-free, it pairs well with light beverages for an easy main course.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:30:00 GMT
Tender BBQ jackfruit lettuce wraps garnished with fresh vegetables and lime wedges.  Save
Tender BBQ jackfruit lettuce wraps garnished with fresh vegetables and lime wedges. | cheerfulchefs.com

Tender jackfruit tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, served in crisp lettuce leaves with fresh toppings a flavorful, plant-based twist on classic BBQ wraps.

I first tried making BBQ jackfruit wraps when I wanted a delicious vegan alternative to traditional BBQ and the result was a hit with my family.

Ingredients

  • Jackfruit Mixture: 2 cans (400 g each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp ground cumin, ½ tsp chili powder, salt and black pepper to taste, 1 cup (240 ml) vegan BBQ sauce (gluten-free if needed)
  • Wrap & Toppings: 1 head butter lettuce leaves separated washed and dried, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 cup red cabbage thinly sliced, ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, 1 lime cut into wedges

Instructions

Prepare the jackfruit:
Remove any seed pods and tough core pieces from the jackfruit. Use your hands or two forks to shred the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Season the jackfruit:
Add the shredded jackfruit smoked paprika cumin chili powder salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
Add the BBQ sauce:
Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat the jackfruit evenly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–12 minutes stirring occasionally until the jackfruit is tender and well-coated.
Assemble the wraps:
Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the BBQ jackfruit mixture into each leaf.
Add toppings:
Top with sliced red onion shredded carrots red cabbage and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
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| cheerfulchefs.com

Making these wraps always brings my family together around the table, sharing laughs and trying our creative toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh cabbage slaw for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover jackfruit mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Variations

Try using collard greens or taco shells instead of lettuce leaves for different textures and flavors.

Smoky BBQ jackfruit nestled in crisp lettuce leaves, ideal for a healthy meal.  Save
Smoky BBQ jackfruit nestled in crisp lettuce leaves, ideal for a healthy meal. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy these BBQ jackfruit wraps as a delicious and healthy option that satisfies both vegans and meat-eaters alike.

Recipe FAQs

How do I prepare the jackfruit before cooking?

Remove any seed pods and tough core, then shred the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces using your hands or forks.

What spices add flavor to the jackfruit mixture?

Smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper create a smoky, mildly spicy base.

Can I substitute the lettuce used for wraps?

Yes, butter lettuce can be replaced with iceberg or romaine for crunch and ease in wrapping.

How long should I simmer the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce?

Simmer on low heat for 10 to 12 minutes until the jackfruit is tender and well coated with sauce.

What toppings enhance the flavor and texture of these wraps?

Fresh red onion slices, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and cilantro add vibrant crunch and brightness.

BBQ Jackfruit Lettuce Wraps

Smoky jackfruit blended with spices and fresh toppings inside crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, flavorful dish.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background American

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Dairy-Free Option, Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Jackfruit Mixture

01 2 cans (14 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 ½ teaspoon ground cumin
07 ½ teaspoon chili powder
08 Salt and black pepper, to taste
09 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce (gluten-free if needed)

Wrap & Toppings

01 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated, washed and dried
02 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 1 cup shredded carrots
04 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
05 ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
06 1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Shred Jackfruit: Remove seed pods and tough core pieces from jackfruit. Shred into bite-sized pieces using hands or forks.

Step 02

Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, then add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Step 03

Cook Jackfruit and Spices: Add shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Simmer with BBQ Sauce: Pour in BBQ sauce, stir to coat jackfruit evenly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Step 05

Assemble Wraps: Place lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon BBQ jackfruit mixture into each leaf.

Step 06

Add Toppings and Serve: Top wraps with sliced red onion, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving platter

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains no major allergens; verify BBQ sauce ingredients for gluten, soy, or additives.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 180
  • Fats: 4 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 36 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams