Prepare to be amazed by this incredible BBQ jackfruit recipe that remarkably mimics the taste and texture of classic pulled pork! Sweet, tangy, and boasting an irresistibly tender bite, this plant-based sandwich is a game-changer for anyone seeking a delicious vegetarian or vegan BBQ experience. Paired with a simple, creamy coleslaw and served on a toasted bun, it’s the perfect satisfying meal. The best part? This BBQ jackfruit comes together with just 5 primary ingredients and is ready in approximately 10-15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and flavorful dinner.

Why This BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich is a Must-Try

If you’re skeptical about plant-based alternatives, prepare to have your mind changed! This BBQ jackfruit sandwich isn’t just a good vegan option; it’s a genuinely delicious and satisfying meal that stands on its own.

• It’s the ultimate vegetarian and vegan rendition of a classic, tangy, saucy pulled pork sandwich. As someone from Memphis, the undisputed home of authentic BBQ, I can confidently say this recipe delivers on flavor and texture, capturing the essence of what makes a pulled BBQ sandwich so incredibly satisfying.
• Jackfruit serves as an extraordinary meat substitute, offering a texture that mimics the most tender, juicy pulled pork you’ve ever savored. When cooked down with rich BBQ sauce and spices, it transforms into stringy, flavorful strands that are almost indistinguishable from slow-cooked meat. This recipe focuses on maximizing that amazing texture and flavor with minimal effort.
• Embrace convenience without compromising on taste! This incredible sandwich is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy and remarkably fast to prepare. You’re just about 10-15 minutes away from diving into a plate of BBQ heaven, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave delicious, homemade BBQ without the long cooking times.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You only need a handful of ingredients to create this culinary masterpiece. With just 5 core components for the jackfruit itself, you won’t need to scour specialty stores or spend a fortune. This simplicity makes it approachable for even novice cooks.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Jackfruit is naturally low in calories and cholesterol, and high in fiber, offering a healthier spin on traditional BBQ while still providing a deeply satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet without feeling like you’re missing out.

What is Jackfruit? Your New Favorite Meat Substitute Explained

For many, jackfruit might be an unfamiliar ingredient, but it’s quickly becoming a staple in plant-based cuisine for very good reasons. Native to South and Southeast Asia, jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world. It’s a relative of breadfruit and figs, and its unique properties make it an exceptional substitute for meat.

• Remarkable Texture: The most striking feature of young, unripe jackfruit (the kind used for savory dishes) is its fibrous, stringy consistency. When cooked, it easily shreds, much like chicken or pork, providing that satisfying “pulled” texture crucial for BBQ sandwiches. This structural integrity is what allows it to mimic meat so convincingly.
• Neutral Flavor Canvas: By itself, young jackfruit has a relatively mild, almost neutral taste. This characteristic is precisely what makes it perfect as a meat substitute. It readily absorbs the flavors of sauces and seasonings you cook it with, allowing the BBQ rub and sauce to truly shine and infuse every fiber of the fruit. Unlike other plant-based substitutes that might have a distinct flavor, jackfruit lets your BBQ sauce be the star.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Beyond its culinary versatility, jackfruit is also incredibly nutritious. It’s low in calories, cholesterol-free, and a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin C and B vitamins), and minerals (like potassium and magnesium). Incorporating jackfruit into your diet is a delicious way to boost your nutrient intake and enjoy a wholesome meal.

Understanding jackfruit’s unique qualities makes it clear why it’s such an ideal choice for this delicious pulled BBQ sandwich. It provides the perfect vehicle for robust BBQ flavors, ensuring a hearty and authentic-tasting meal every time.

Essential Ingredients for Your BBQ Jackfruit Masterpiece

Creating this flavorful BBQ jackfruit sandwich requires a simple list of ingredients that are easy to find and come together quickly to produce a sensational meal. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is vital:

• Young Green Jackfruit (in water or brine): This is the star of our show. Make sure to buy canned young green jackfruit, which is unripe, packed in water or brine (avoid jackfruit in syrup, which is for desserts!). Its firm, fibrous texture is what allows it to shred beautifully, mimicking pulled pork. You’ll typically need two standard cans for a meal serving four.
• Your Favorite BBQ Rub: A good quality BBQ rub is essential for building a deep, smoky, and spicy flavor profile. Choose a rub that complements your preferred BBQ taste – whether it’s sweet, spicy, or savory. This dry rub penetrates the jackfruit, creating a foundational layer of flavor before the sauce is added.
• Avocado Oil (or other high-heat oil): Used for sautéing the jackfruit, avocado oil has a high smoke point, which is perfect for getting a slight sear and developing a rich aroma before the sauce goes in. It also adds a subtle richness without overpowering the BBQ flavors.
• Quality Barbecue Sauce: The heart and soul of any BBQ sandwich! Use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce. Whether you prefer a sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy variety, the sauce will coat the jackfruit, tenderize it, and infuse it with that signature BBQ tang.
• Brioche Buns (or preferred bun): A soft, slightly sweet brioche bun provides the perfect counterpoint to the savory and tangy jackfruit. Its buttery richness adds an extra layer of indulgence. For vegan versions, ensure you use a vegan-friendly brioche or opt for potato or gluten-free buns.
• Coleslaw Mix: A pre-packaged coleslaw mix makes preparation a breeze. It’s the perfect crunchy, cool, and creamy topping.
• Mayonnaise (or vegan mayo): The base for your coleslaw dressing. Use traditional mayonnaise or a good quality vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based sandwich.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a crucial tangy kick to the coleslaw, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and cutting through the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors, used both in the jackfruit preparation and the coleslaw.
• Pickles (sliced, optional but highly recommended): A few slices of dill pickles add a fantastic briny crunch and acidity that perfectly complements the rich BBQ flavors.

Crafting Your Vegan BBQ Masterpiece: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping BBQ jackfruit sandwich that will impress even the most discerning BBQ enthusiasts. The process is straightforward, ensuring a delicious meal without fuss.

1. Prepare the Coleslaw: In a medium bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a few generous pinches of black pepper. Stir everything together until the coleslaw is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it while you prepare the jackfruit. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly soften, ensuring a perfectly chilled and crisp topping for your sandwiches.
2. Prepare the Jackfruit: Begin by draining the canned jackfruit thoroughly. Rinse it well under cold water to remove any excess brine. Pat it dry with paper towels. Next, you’ll need to “shred” the jackfruit. You can easily do this by using two forks to pull the soft flesh apart, creating strands that resemble pulled pork. Alternatively, for an even faster method, place the drained jackfruit in a bowl and use a hand mixer on a low speed to gently break it apart until it achieves the desired pulled texture. Discard any harder core pieces if present.
3. Season the Jackfruit: Transfer the pulled jackfruit to a clean bowl. Sprinkle the barbecue rub evenly over the jackfruit. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, mix well to ensure every strand of jackfruit is coated with the aromatic rub. This step is crucial for building a deep, savory foundation of flavor.
4. Sauté the Jackfruit: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough. Add the seasoned jackfruit to the hot skillet. Sauté the jackfruit, tossing it occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. This quick sear helps to develop some char and fragrance, enhancing its texture and flavor.
5. Simmer in BBQ Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the barbecue sauce over the jackfruit in the skillet. Stir gently to coat all the jackfruit evenly with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering period allows the jackfruit to fully absorb the rich BBQ sauce, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful.
6. Toast the Buns: While the jackfruit is simmering, prepare your buns. Heat a small amount of vegan butter (or regular butter, if not strictly vegan) in a separate skillet over medium heat. Place the brioche buns, cut side down, into the skillet. Toast them until they are golden brown and lightly crisped in spots. This creates a warm, sturdy base for your sandwich and prevents them from getting soggy.
7. Assemble and Serve: To assemble, generously pile the tender, saucy BBQ jackfruit onto the toasted buns. Top with a spoonful of the chilled coleslaw. For an extra burst of flavor and crunch, add a few sliced pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade, plant-based BBQ sensation!

Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

Elevate your BBQ jackfruit sandwich from great to extraordinary with these expert tips and tricks:

• Choosing the Right Jackfruit: Always make sure you buy young green jackfruit packed in water or brine, not in syrup or juice. Jackfruit in syrup is ripe and sweet, meant for desserts, and will not work for this savory application. Young jackfruit has a neutral flavor and firm, fibrous texture ideal for shredding.
• Bun Perfection: While you can substitute the buns with potato or gluten-free options, we enthusiastically recommend a soft, slightly sweet, and buttery brioche bun for an unparalleled experience with your BBQ. The richness of the brioche perfectly complements the tangy jackfruit. If you’re making this vegan, ensure your brioche buns are certified vegan, or opt for a good quality vegan potato bun.
• Vegan Coleslaw Made Easy: To keep your entire sandwich plant-based, simply use vegan mayonnaise for the coleslaw. There are many excellent brands available that offer a creamy texture and delicious flavor comparable to traditional mayonnaise.
• Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite BBQ sauces! Whether you prefer a smoky, sweet, spicy, or vinegary sauce, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can even mix two different sauces for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice Level Adjustment: The amount and type of barbecue rub and sauce will dictate the spice level. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the jackfruit while it simmers.
• Shredding Techniques: While two forks work perfectly well for shredding the jackfruit, a hand mixer on low speed is a fantastic shortcut for achieving that ideal pulled texture with minimal effort. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct strands, not a purée.
• Don’t Skip the Coleslaw & Pickles: These toppings are not just for garnish; they add essential elements to the sandwich. The cool, creamy crunch of the coleslaw and the sharp tang of the pickles provide a crucial textural and flavor contrast that balances the rich BBQ jackfruit.

Serving Suggestions & Customization

While these BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are phenomenal on their own, here are some ideas to elevate your meal and explore customization options:

• Classic Sides: Serve with traditional BBQ sides like potato salad, baked beans, corn on the cob, or sweet potato fries for a complete comfort food experience.
• Salad Topping: Instead of buns, serve the BBQ jackfruit and coleslaw over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, low-carb meal.
• Tacos or Wraps: Use the BBQ jackfruit as a filling for soft tacos, adding extra toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. It also works wonderfully in a large lettuce wrap for an even healthier option.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Spoon the warm BBQ jackfruit over a baked potato or sweet potato, topping with vegan sour cream or chives for a hearty and satisfying dish.
• Nachos: Layer the jackfruit over tortilla chips with your favorite vegan cheese sauce, jalapeños, and other nacho toppings for an epic appetizer.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This BBQ jackfruit is excellent for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy quick and delicious meals throughout the week:

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover BBQ jackfruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The coleslaw should also be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days, as its texture can change over time.
• Reheating: Reheat the jackfruit gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if it seems a bit dry.
• Freezing: Cooked BBQ jackfruit freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Meal Prep Strategy: Prepare a larger batch of the BBQ jackfruit at the beginning of the week. This way, you can quickly assemble sandwiches, salads, or tacos for lunches or dinners without much effort. Make the coleslaw fresh if you prefer maximum crispness, or prepare it a day in advance.

More Tasty Recipes You’ll Love

• Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
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• Vegan Pad Thai
• Crispy Baked Tofu
• BBQ Chicken Tacos
• Whole30 Chili
• Whole30 Chicken Curry (Low Carb, Paleo)

Recipe By:

Cheryl Malik

5 from 3 votes

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Prep

5 minutes

Cook

10 minutes

The perfect vegetarian version of a saucy, tangy pulled pork BBQ sandwich.

Cheryl Malik

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4 servings

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Ingredients

• ▢
  8 ounce coleslaw mix
• ▢
  2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ▢
  3 tablespoons mayonnaise See notes
• ▢
  40 ounces jackfruit about 2 cans, in water
• ▢
  2 teaspoons barbecue rub
• ▢
  1 tablespoon avocado oil
• ▢
  1 cup barbecue sauce
• ▢
  salt
• ▢
  pepper
• ▢
  4 brioche buns See notes
• ▢
  pickles sliced

Instructions

• Mix together the vinegar, coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few pinches of pepper in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Drain and seed jackfruit. Pull apart with two forks or use a hand mixer on low to break apart.
• Add the BBQ rub, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to the jackfruit and combine.
• Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the jackfruit, tossing occasionally, until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the BBQ sauce to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cover. Stir occasionally and cook about 5 minutes or until tender.
• For the buns, heat up a little vegan butter in a skillet. Add buns, cut side down, and toast until golden and lightly browned in spots. Serve jackfruit on buns with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.

Notes:

• For vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise for the coleslaw.
• Bun alternatives: For dietary restrictions or preferences, use potato buns or gluten-free buns.

Approximate Nutrition Information for One Serving

Calories: 877cal
Protein: 16g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 148mg
Sodium: 1202mg
Potassium: 1549mg
Total Carbs: 138g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 80g
Net Carbs: 131g
Vitamin A: 1312IU
Vitamin C: 60mg
Calcium: 187mg
Iron: 3mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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