If you’re looking for a plant-based BBQ sandwich that hits all the right notes, look no further than these BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches. Packed with the smoky, saucy, and tender goodness you love from traditional pulled pork, this recipe uses young green jackfruit as a substitute for meat, offering a satisfying texture and flavor. It’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone craving a healthier BBQ option without sacrificing taste.
What is BBQ Pulled Jackfruit?
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit is a fantastic alternative to traditional pulled pork, and it’s made by shredding young green jackfruit, which has a fibrous, meaty texture that easily soaks up sauces and seasonings. When cooked with BBQ sauce and seasonings, it mimics the tender, smoky texture of pulled pork, making it a perfect filling for sandwiches. It’s a plant-based dish that’s not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
Origin of BBQ Pulled Jackfruit
Jackfruit, a tropical fruit native to southwest India, is gaining popularity worldwide due to its versatility in plant-based cooking. While it’s traditionally used in savory dishes in South and Southeast Asia, its ability to mimic meat textures has made it a favorite among vegans and vegetarians. The BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich takes inspiration from Southern BBQ but offers a cruelty-free and plant-based twist, making it a must-try dish for anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption without missing out on flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Jackfruit
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine or water (NOT ripe or in syrup)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional but adds caramelization)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1–2 cups your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
- ¼ cup water (as needed)
For Serving
- Toasted brioche or sandwich buns
- Coleslaw (classic or vinegar-based)
- Pickles (optional)
- Extra BBQ sauce
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prep the Jackfruit
Begin by draining and rinsing the young green jackfruit thoroughly. For a better pulled texture, cut off the tough core triangles (this step is optional but highly recommended). Once the jackfruit is prepared, use your fingers or two forks to shred the pieces into fine strands, similar to pulled pork.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season and Cook the Jackfruit
Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet along with the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the jackfruit with a rich, flavorful layer.
4. Add the BBQ Sauce
Pour in about 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce and a splash of water to loosen the mixture. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the jackfruit simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a saucier texture, feel free to add more BBQ sauce as the jackfruit simmers.
5. Optional: Crisp It Up
For an even more pulled pork-like texture, spread the cooked jackfruit onto a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes to get the edges crispy and caramelized.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
To assemble your sandwiches, start by placing a generous scoop of the BBQ jackfruit mixture onto each toasted brioche bun. Top with a heaping spoonful of coleslaw and a few pickles if desired. Finish it off with an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce for that perfect tangy-sweet kick.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations for BBQ Pulled Jackfruit
While the basic recipe is already bursting with flavor, you can easily customize it to suit your taste:
- Add extra veggies: Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onions for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the jackfruit for an extra level of heat.
- Smoky depth: For a richer, smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
- Vegan-friendly cheese: Top your sandwich with a slice of vegan cheese for extra indulgence.
- Gluten-free option: Swap out the sandwich buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
FAQs about BBQ Pulled Jackfruit
1. Can I use canned jackfruit for this recipe?
Yes, canned young green jackfruit is the perfect choice for making pulled jackfruit. Make sure you’re using jackfruit that’s packed in brine or water, not syrup, to avoid sweetness.
2. Is jackfruit a good substitute for meat?
Absolutely! Young green jackfruit has a texture similar to pulled pork or chicken, making it an excellent plant-based substitute for meat in dishes like BBQ sandwiches, tacos, or wraps.
3. Can I make BBQ Pulled Jackfruit ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ jackfruit mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving and assemble the sandwiches when ready.
4. What’s the best type of BBQ sauce to use?
Any BBQ sauce that you enjoy will work great! You can choose a sweet and tangy, smoky, or spicy BBQ sauce depending on your flavor preferences.
Conclusion: BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches are an incredibly delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional BBQ pulled pork. With the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, this recipe will not only please your taste buds but also leave you feeling good about your meal choice. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy BBQ, these sandwiches will become a go-to favorite. So, grab your young green jackfruit, get cooking, and enjoy the satisfying, tender goodness of a BBQ classic reimagined.
By following these steps, you’ll create a memorable meal that’s not only full of flavor but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy!
