BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Craving a smoky, tangy, and completely satisfying BBQ sandwich—without the meat? These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are the ultimate plant-based alternative! Shredded jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork, absorbing a rich, homemade BBQ sauce that’s finger-licking good. Piled high on a toasted bun with crunchy slaw, this sandwich delivers all the bold, hearty flavors of a summer cookout—no grill required!

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition: Per serving

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 48g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 9g

• Fiber: 5g

This BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich is a delicious, plant-based twist on pulled pork! Shredded jackfruit is simmered in a smoky BBQ sauce and served on toasted buns with crunchy slaw. Perfect for vegan BBQ lovers!

Ingredients:

For the BBQ Jackfruit:

• 2 cans (14 oz each) young green jackfruit (in water or brine, drained & rinsed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Slaw:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cabbage (green, purple, or a mix)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp vegan mayo (or Greek yogurt for non-vegan option)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp maple syrup
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 4 burger buns (toasted)
• Pickles (optional, but recommended!)
• Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Directions:

 Prepare the Jackfruit

• Drain and rinse the jackfruit, then pat dry. Use your fingers or a fork to shred it slightly for a “pulled” texture.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook the Jackfruit

• Add the shredded jackfruit to the pan and season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat.

4. Simmer in BBQ Sauce

• Pour in the BBQ sauce, vegetable broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jackfruit will soften and absorb the sauce. Use a fork to further shred it as it cooks.

5. Prepare the Slaw

• In a bowl, toss the shredded cabbage and carrots with vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

6. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Toast the burger buns for extra crunch. Pile the saucy jackfruit onto each bun, top with a generous amount of slaw, and add pickles if using.

7. Serve & Enjoy!

• Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired, then dig in! Serve with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Notes:

• Jackfruit Texture Tip: If you prefer an even meatier texture, lightly mash the jackfruit as it cooks.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns.

• Spicy Variation: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.