BBQ Jackfruit Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The smoky sweet flavor of pulled pork sandwiches is one of the ultimate comfort foods and this plant-based version made with tender jackfruit nails every note Simmered with spices and tangy BBQ sauce then piled high with fresh slaw on toasted buns this meal delivers all the mess and satisfaction you want from a classic barbecue sandwich but is completely vegan

I started making these after a backyard party where the jackfruit version disappeared before the meat ones now they are my go to for crowd friendly suppers

Ingredients

• Jackfruit in brine or water: Provides the fibrous texture make sure to choose young green jackfruit and check that it is not packed in syrup
• Olive oil: For sautéing which makes the filling silky rich use a fresh bottle for best flavor
• Yellow onion: Fills out the flavor base look for firm unblemished bulbs
• Garlic: Adds aroma and punch be sure to use fresh cloves if possible
• Smoked paprika: Gives depth and that distinctive BBQ smokiness Spanish style smoked paprika gives the best flavor
• Ground cumin and chili powder: Round out the spice mix aim for freshly opened bottles so the spices are most fragrant
• Black pepper and salt: For seasoning
• Vegan BBQ sauce: Binds and flavors the filling choose one without corn syrup for the cleanest taste
• Shredded green cabbage: Adds crunch and freshness pick a tight heavy head
• Shredded carrots: Lend a hint of sweetness and color
• Vegan mayonnaise: For your classic creamy slaw try to find a jar with a short ingredient list
• Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the slaw choose raw unfiltered for the best tang
• Maple syrup: For a subtle sweetness use real maple syrup for superior flavor
• Burger buns: Soft and fluffy are perfect for holding the filling check labels to ensure they are vegan if needed
• Pickles (optional): For a zippy crunchy burst choose crisp dill pickles in the refrigerated section

Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit:

Remove any tough cores and large seeds from the jackfruit pieces Then shred each chunk using your fingers or two forks until the pieces look like classic pulled pork This step is worth doing by hand for the most realistic texture

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat Add the chopped onion and let it cook for about four minutes You want it translucent and fragrant before moving to the next step Add the garlic and stir for another minute until you smell its sharpness

Toast the Spices and Add Jackfruit:

Add your shredded jackfruit to the skillet followed by smoked paprika cumin chili powder black pepper and salt Stir well and let everything toast together for three to four minutes This wakes up the spices and begins merging flavors

Simmer with BBQ Sauce:

Pour in the BBQ sauce and water Stir so all the jackfruit is well coated Bring to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes stirring every so often The liquid will reduce and the jackfruit will take on a glossy hearty look If it gets too thick add a splash more water

Mix the Slaw:

While the jackfruit simmers combine cabbage carrots vegan mayo apple cider vinegar maple syrup salt and pepper in a bowl Mix until evenly coated and set aside The cabbage should wilt just slightly making it easy to pile on the sandwiches

Toast and Assemble:

Toast your burger buns until golden if you like the structure Pile jackfruit filling on the bottom of each bun Top with plenty of slaw and a few pickles if using Cover with the other half of the bun and serve right away with napkins ready

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My favorite part of this recipe has always been the sloppy sticky feeling of eating these sandwiches because it takes me right back to summer picnics as a kid Using jackfruit still gives you that same playful messy meal but feels much lighter I always add extra slaw because the crunch makes every bite perfect

Storage Tips

Store any extra BBQ jackfruit and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge The jackfruit filling stays tasty for three days and reheats quickly in a skillet or microwave The slaw is best fresh on day one but will hold up for a day without losing too much crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If jackfruit is hard to find young banana blossom or shredded oyster mushrooms will give a similar juicy texture For a gluten free option just swap in your favorite GF burger buns For a soy free take read labels on mayonnaise and BBQ sauce

Serving Suggestions

Pile these sandwiches high and serve alongside sweet potato fries or homemade potato chips For picnics wrap them in parchment paper to keep them tidy A scoop of baked beans or a vinegar based potato salad is a classic partner

Cultural and Historical Context

Jackfruit comes from Southeast Asia and has a centuries old tradition as a meat substitute due to its fibrous texture Vegan BBQ jackfruit sandwiches bring together the love of Southern barbecue and plant based eating in a modern twist The play of sweet smoky savory in this dish honors both traditions

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer add sliced fresh peaches or grilled pineapple to the sandwiches In winter serve them with a hot soup like tomato basil or roasted vegetable Try purple cabbage or radicchio in the slaw for a festive look in autumn

Success Stories

Friends who claim they would never go vegan always admit these are better than expected even grilling pros asked for seconds My kids now know jackfruit as the pulled pork sandwich they beg for game nights

Freezer Meal Conversion

Prepare the BBQ jackfruit filling and let it cool then freeze in a flat layer in a ziptop bag for up to two months Just thaw and reheat stirring in a little water if needed For best texture make the slaw just before serving

Save

Your BBQ jackfruit sandwiches will surprise even the pickiest eaters with their smoky flavor and unbeatable texture Serve with plenty of napkins and enjoy every messy bite

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get a meat-like texture with jackfruit?

Shred the jackfruit thoroughly to resemble pulled pork, then simmer it in BBQ sauce and spices until tender and flavorful.

→ Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free burger buns and check the mayonnaise and BBQ sauce labels for gluten-containing ingredients.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Try sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or baked beans for warm and complementary flavors.

→ How do I enhance the smoky taste?

Add a few drops of liquid smoke or increase the smoked paprika for a deeper, richer aroma.

→ How long does jackfruit need to simmer?

Let the jackfruit simmer in BBQ sauce for about 20–25 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and mixture is tender.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, this meal is completely plant-based. Use vegan mayo and buns to keep all ingredients vegan-friendly.