Description
These vegan BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are a quick, plant-based alternative to pulled pork that mimics the texture and flavor of takeout. Ready in just 20 minutes, they are perfect for busy weeknights or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (20oz each) young green jackfruit (in brine or water), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons oil (avocado or olive oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups BBQ sauce (vegan-friendly)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 8–10 burger buns (brioche, potato, or kaiser)
- Coleslaw (creamy or vinegar-based)
- Pickles (dill or bread and butter)
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit cans thoroughly under cold water to remove the brine taste. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Place jackfruit on a cutting board and shred using two forks until it resembles pulled pork strands.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add shredded jackfruit to the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jackfruit begins to brown slightly on the edges.
- Pour in BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. Stir well and simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to jackfruit. Adjust sweetness with maple syrup if needed.
- Toast burger buns in a separate pan or under the broiler until golden.
- Pile hot jackfruit onto toasted buns. Top with coleslaw and pickles. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure you use young green jackfruit in brine or water, not ripe jackfruit in syrup. Rinsing and drying the jackfruit is crucial to remove the canned taste and allow for proper browning. Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy from the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sandwiches per per
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 6
Keywords: vegan, jackfruit, BBQ, pulled pork, sandwich, plant-based, quick dinner, summer recipes, gluten-free option