BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are an amazing plant-based alternative that brings the classic BBQ experience to a whole new level! Have you ever tried a BBQ jackfruit sandwich? It’s a perfect substitute for traditional BBQ dishes, delivering rich flavor and texture without using any meat! Jackfruit has soared in popularity as a fantastic replacement for pulled pork, especially for those seeking vegan or vegetarian options that don’t skimp on flavor. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, quick weeknight meals, or even a hearty lunch.
What makes jackfruit special is its ability to mimic the tender, stringy texture of pulled pork when cooked properly, making it a superstar ingredient in vegan BBQ. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also a nutritious, guilt-free option that will win over even non-vegans. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches combine smoky, tangy flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfectly complemented by a crunchy avocado slaw. It’s a sandwich that satisfies everyone—whether you’re a meat lover or a plant-based enthusiast!
Chef Olivia’s Notes
When I first tried making BBQ jackfruit, I was amazed at how well it absorbs flavors, especially smoky BBQ sauce. To make this recipe truly shine, I recommend using young canned jackfruit because it has a milder taste, allowing the BBQ sauce and spices to be the stars. You can also play around with the BBQ sauce—try using a spicy or smoky version to suit your taste buds!
A little tip: be sure to shred the jackfruit thoroughly after cooking it. You’ll get that perfect pulled pork texture that makes this dish so satisfying. Also, for a crispy bite, try toasting the buns slightly before assembling the sandwich. And for my fellow avocado lovers, add a bit more lime juice to the avocado slaw for an extra zesty kick. It balances out the BBQ sauce so nicely!
History of the Recipe
Jackfruit has long been a staple in tropical cuisines, especially in South and Southeast Asia. But it wasn’t until recently that it gained popularity in the Western world as a meat substitute. Known for its fibrous texture, young jackfruit easily takes on flavors and is versatile in savory dishes. Traditionally, jackfruit was used in curries and stews, but the growing trend of plant-based eating has helped it evolve into a superstar ingredient for BBQ recipes.
The rise of BBQ jackfruit as a vegan pulled pork substitute is a fairly recent trend, especially in the U.S. As more people seek healthier and more sustainable alternatives to meat, jackfruit sandwiches have become a go-to option, especially in vegan BBQ recipes.
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BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Discover how to make BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches with delicious pulled jackfruit, tangy BBQ sauce, and crunchy avocado slaw.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Jackfruit:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in water (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Slaw:
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (red or green)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Other:
- 4 burger buns (gluten-free optional)
- Optional toppings: pickles, jalapeños, extra BBQ sauce
Extras for Serving: Make it Even Better
When serving these BBQ jackfruit sandwiches, it’s great to add delicious sides like corn on the cob, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh summer salad. A cool, refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea complements the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a scoop of coleslaw or crispy onion rings inside the sandwich for extra crunch!
For a spicier kick, throw in some pickled jalapeños or hot sauce on top of the jackfruit. This adds a fiery contrast to the creamy avocado slaw. And for those with a heartier appetite, serve these sandwiches alongside some sweet potato fries for the ultimate vegan BBQ experience.
Instructions
Prep the Jackfruit:
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit from the can, then shred it using your hands or a fork to resemble pulled pork. Don’t worry if some pieces seem too large—they will break down further during cooking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil, and sauté the jackfruit for 5-7 minutes, until lightly browned. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the jackfruit.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce and let the jackfruit simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure all the jackfruit pieces are evenly coated and tender.
Make the Avocado Slaw:
- While the jackfruit is simmering, prepare the avocado slaw. In a large bowl, combine the mashed avocado, shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until everything is mixed well and coated with the avocado.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more lime juice or salt if needed. This slaw should be fresh, creamy, and slightly tangy to balance the BBQ jackfruit.
Assemble the Sandwich:
- Toast the burger buns lightly in the oven or on a grill for extra crunch. You can skip this step if you prefer softer buns.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spoon a generous portion of the BBQ jackfruit onto the bottom half of the bun.
- Top with a hearty scoop of the avocado slaw and any other toppings you like—pickles, extra BBQ sauce, or even crispy onions!
- Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the jackfruit while it’s simmering. This really amps up the BBQ flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free buns, and double-check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.
If you have any leftover jackfruit, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, and it’ll be ready for another sandwich or even tacos! Speaking of tacos, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also serve this BBQ jackfruit in tortillas for a fun twist on tacos.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches, BBQ
- Method: Stovetop, easy
- Cuisine: Vegan, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 300 kals
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 700mg (30%)
- Fat: 12g (18%)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (14%)
- Fiber: 8g (32%)
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0g (0%)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
Yes, but using canned young jackfruit is much easier and more accessible. Fresh jackfruit can be difficult to find and prepare, but it’s doable!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The jackfruit can be made a day ahead and reheated when ready to serve. The slaw, however, is best made fresh to keep the avocado bright and flavorful.
What’s a good substitute for avocado in the slaw?
If you don’t have avocado, you can use a vegan mayo or yogurt base for the slaw. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
Why You Should Try BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and healthy alternative to traditional BBQ sandwiches, BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are the perfect choice. They’re packed with bold BBQ flavors and creamy avocado slaw, making them a delicious plant-based meal that even meat-eaters will crave. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a must-try for anyone interested in vegan or plant-based cooking. Give it a go, and enjoy the unique and delightful taste of jackfruit!