BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Pineapple Slaw are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all packed into a bite-sized meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great option for a plant-based BBQ or game day treat. Whether you are hosting a summer gathering or just craving something unique and satisfying, these sliders will surely impress your guests. With young green jackfruit taking the place of traditional pulled pork, this dish offers a delicious and healthy alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Total Time: 35 Minutes (10 Minutes Prep, 25 Minutes Cook)
Servings: 8 Sliders
What is BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Pineapple Slaw?
BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Pineapple Slaw is a fun, flavorful dish that swaps out traditional meats for the versatile jackfruit. The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork and absorbs all the smoky flavors of BBQ sauce, making it a perfect base for a plant-based slider. The pineapple slaw adds a refreshing crunch, with a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the BBQ jackfruit. These sliders are not only plant-based but can also be easily customized to fit different dietary preferences.
Origin of the Recipe
This BBQ Jackfruit Sliders recipe draws inspiration from the classic BBQ pulled pork sliders, with the innovative twist of using jackfruit. Jackfruit, a large tropical fruit native to India and Southeast Asia, has become a popular alternative to meat due to its fibrous, stringy texture. It is frequently used in plant-based dishes to mimic the texture of meat, making it a perfect substitute in barbecue-style dishes.
Pineapple slaw adds an extra layer of sweetness and freshness to the sliders. The use of slaw on sandwiches has been popular for decades in both traditional American cuisine and barbecue joints. Combining the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy texture of the slaw makes for an ideal pairing with BBQ jackfruit.
Ingredients with Quantities
For the BBQ Jackfruit:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine (not syrup), drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pineapple Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons vegan or regular mayo
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 8 slider buns (toasted if desired)
- Optional: pickles, extra BBQ sauce, or fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prepare the BBQ Jackfruit:
The first step to creating your BBQ jackfruit sliders is to prepare the jackfruit. Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly to remove any excess brine. If you prefer, you can remove the seeds and hard cores from the jackfruit to make it easier to shred. Once prepared, set the jackfruit aside.
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin, allowing the spices to toast for about a minute.
Now, add the jackfruit to the skillet, along with BBQ sauce, and stir until the jackfruit is fully coated. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the jackfruit absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Once the jackfruit has softened and cooked through, use two forks to shred the jackfruit into “pulled” pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
2. Make the Pineapple Slaw:
While the jackfruit is cooking, prepare the refreshing pineapple slaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and finely diced fresh pineapple. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayo, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (or honey) until the dressing is smooth and well-blended. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Once the BBQ jackfruit and pineapple slaw are ready, it’s time to assemble the sliders. Take the slider buns and, if desired, lightly toast them for extra flavor and texture. Layer a generous portion of the BBQ jackfruit onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Top the jackfruit with a spoonful of the pineapple slaw for added freshness and crunch.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle on some additional BBQ sauce, or top the sliders with pickles or fresh cilantro for garnish. Finally, place the top buns over the slaw, and your delicious sliders are ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version of these sliders, simply swap out the regular slider buns for gluten-free buns.
- Add Spice: Want a spicy kick? Add sliced jalapeños to the BBQ jackfruit or drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top before serving.
- Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, lightly toast the slider buns with vegan butter or olive oil before assembling the sliders.
- Customize the Slaw: Experiment with different slaw ingredients! You can add green onions, cilantro, or even a splash of lime juice to change the flavor profile.
FAQs About BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Pineapple Slaw
1. Can I use canned jackfruit for this recipe?
Yes! For this recipe, you should use young green jackfruit in brine, as it has the right texture to mimic pulled pork. Avoid jackfruit in syrup, as it’s too sweet for savory dishes.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ jackfruit and pineapple slaw ahead of time. Store the BBQ jackfruit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the slaw will stay fresh for 1-2 days.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The BBQ jackfruit can be reheated on the stovetop, while the slaw is best eaten fresh.
4. Can I freeze BBQ Jackfruit?
Yes, you can freeze the BBQ jackfruit mixture. Allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Conclusion: BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Pineapple Slaw are a mouthwatering, plant-based alternative to traditional BBQ sliders, offering a combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. With a quick and easy preparation method, these sliders make for a great summer meal, party appetizer, or even a satisfying weekday dinner. Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a new BBQ twist, these sliders are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the delicious flavors of BBQ without compromising on taste, and make sure to try different variations to make them your own!
[tasty-recipe id=”15255″]
