Friday, April 14, 2017

Jackfruit "Tuna" (3 Ways)

 
Jackfruit "Tuna"
(3 Way)
I grew up like most kids and ate tuna for lunch weekly. It was a favorite of mine and when I went vegan 12 years ago, there weren't many substitutes or recipes for tuna. Today we have substitutes and many options to try to replicate Tuna these days. I have found that Jackfruit, yes the magical Jackfruit and it's majestic ways makes a great substitute. I know, Jackfruit is EVERYWHERE these days. You see it in everything from pulled "Pork" to mock "crab" cakes. It's so versatile and handy to have on hand. I'll show you a NEW and exciting way to use it not only for 1 Sandwich but for 2, plus a 3 way to use it at he end. Are you excited yet?? 
When we are looking for a quick and easy lunch we usually go for sandwiches (Oh how exciting), should I go on? Yeah I know it's quick and easy but can't it also be super delish too?? Sure it can! It's great to eat your lunch and not feel bored while eating it. This recipe shows that you can have your lunch (or dinner) be scrumptious as well as quick, delish, and fun. The combo of the classic flavors but vegan, no Tuna was harmed in the making of it here. You can make this recipe for a larger group by double or tripling (even half it for smaller recipe) OR make it ahead for the work week. Just whip up and store in the fridge and nibble as needed, it only gets better daily. You can't go wrong when enjoying this for your next meal. Throw it together and let me know...I'll wait, I know you'll love it. Enjoy! 

Jackfruit "Tuna" (3 ways)
Ingredients
Tuna Salad
1 can of jackfruit (packed in water or brine, not syrup), shredded, rinsed, and drained
1 teaspoon kelp granules (optional)
2 Tablespoons Celery with leaves, minced 
1 Tablespoon green onions, minced (1 stalk usually) 
2 Tablespoons Just Mayo (or your favorite vegan mayo, vegan yogurt or sour cream will work also) 
2 Tablespoons Hampton Creek Awesomesauce
1 teaspoon Capers, chopped + 1 teaspoon caper liquid
2 tablespoons chopped dill pickles or dill pickled relish + 1 Tablespoon pickle liquid 
1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
    Tuna Melt Sandwich Options
  • Vegan Cheese (I used Chao, but use your favorite)
  • Greens
  • Tomato
  • Sprouts 
  • Extra Pickles 
  • Potato chips (it's so good!) 

HELPFUL TIP

Now you may ask, how do I find Jackfruit?? I get his question a lot and many are perplexed on how to get their eager vegan hands on this magical ingredient. I find that the easiest way to find it is ordering it. Now you can find it in some grocery stores now. You can find it at local health food stores or my favorite, Asian Markets. I know I've said it so many times, Asian Markets are a vegans Disneyland. They have sooooo many items we can have. Lots of vegan substitutes and the best part, SO MUCH CHEAPER. I could walk the aisle for hours searching for treasures. But I'll stop now before I get too exited and get carried away. So back to ordering, if you don't have the other options listed, orderkng is your next best bet. Amazon, Vegan Essentials, Rabbit Food Store, and Many more online stores have Jackfruit ready Order and enjoy at a moments notice. There are plenty of options so you don't fee left out of the Vegan mix! 

 
Directions 
For Tuna Salad
Use a fork to pull apart the jackfruit into shreds (until it has a tuna-like consistency).
In a bowl, add the rest of the salad ingredients and mix together. Once the jackfruit is pulled and drained, add it to the salad mixture and mix until fully coated. Taste and add extra  seasoning, if needed. 
 
*If you are going to enjoy this as just a "Tuna" salad, you can stop here, add to bread with optional toppings. You can also eat it with vegan crackers or in a wrap.*
For Melt
Heat a large frying pan over medium-low heat and lightly spray with oil of your choice or vegan butter. Place the sandwiches in the pan, cheese side down. Let cook until cheese begins to melt. Lightly spray the tops of the sandwiches with the olive oil. Flip the sandwiches and cook on the other side. Flip again if needed. The sandwiches are done when the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. Remove from the pan and serve immediately. Pairs so well with a side of chips, pickles, and perfect with your favorite cold beverage. Enjoy!
3rd Way: Tuna or "Crab" Cakes
*Now this mixture could also be made 3 ways, this mixture of dredged and coated with breadcrumbs or Panko, could be turned into vegan "crab" cakes.*
 

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