Why You’ll Love These BBQ Jackfruit Sliders!
If y’all are looking for a mouthwatering, plant-based alternative to pulled pork, this is it! Jackfruit has a tender, meaty texture that absorbs flavors beautifully—especially when simmered in smoky BBQ sauce. These sliders are the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy, making them a crowd-pleaser for vegans and meat-eaters alike!
What Is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a large tropical fruit native to South and Southeast Asia, known for its versatile texture and mild flavor. When ripe, it’s naturally sweet and often used in desserts, but when young and unripe, it has a neutral taste and a meaty, shredded texture, making it a fantastic plant-based substitute for pulled pork, like in these BBQ jackfruit sliders, shredded chicken, or beef.
Unlike other meat alternatives, jackfruit is a whole food, free from soy or gluten, and packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Because it easily absorbs flavors, it pairs perfectly with smoky BBQ sauce, making it a staple in many plant-based dishes. Whether you’re new to jackfruit or a longtime fan, this nutritious and delicious fruit is a game-changer for vegan and vegetarian cooking!
What Makes This Recipe a Winner?
Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
Great for meal prep—flavors get even better the next day.
Budget-friendly & easy to find—Canned jackfruit is widely available in most grocery stores!
Perfect for gatherings—Game days, cookouts, or family dinners!
Jackfruit is a powerhouse ingredient that mimics the texture of shredded meat while being completely cholesterol-free, fiber-rich, and packed with nutrients. So, whether you’re plant-based, transitioning to a meatless diet, or just looking for a delicious new recipe, these sliders are about to be your new favorite thing.
How to Make BBQ Jackfruit Sliders (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Jackfruit
Drain and rinse the jackfruit, then shred it using a fork or your hands to create a “pulled” texture. Remove any tough core pieces if needed. If using fresh jackfruit, be sure it’s young, unripe green jackfruit—ripe jackfruit is too sweet for this recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Season & Simmer
Add the shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the jackfruit in seasonings.
Pour in the BBQ sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth. Mix well and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it starts to dry out, add a splash of water.
Step 4: Caramelize & Thicken
Increase the heat slightly and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to develop a deeper, caramelized flavor. If you prefer a crispier texture, spread the jackfruit on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Toast the slider buns if desired. Load them up with BBQ jackfruit, coleslaw, pickles, and extra BBQ sauce for the ultimate flavor explosion!
Pro Tips for the BEST BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Want extra smoky flavor? Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the jackfruit mixture while simmering.
Prefer a spicier kick? Mix in sriracha or hot sauce with the BBQ sauce.
Gluten-free option? Serve the BBQ jackfruit on lettuce wraps, gluten-free buns, or even sweet potatoes!
Make ahead! The jackfruit mixture stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days—just reheat and serve.
FAQs About BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
What does jackfruit taste like?
Jackfruit has a mild, neutral taste but soaks up seasonings beautifully, making it perfect for BBQ dishes! Its texture is similar to pulled pork, making it a game-changer for plant-based meals.
Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
Yes! Just make sure you’re using young, unripe green jackfruit (not the sweet, ripe kind). Fresh jackfruit takes longer to prepare, but it’s a great option if you have access to it.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Go for a smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce—or make your own with ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika!
Can I air-fry the jackfruit?
Yes! After simmering, spread the jackfruit in an air fryer basket and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for a crispier texture.
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Ingredients
- 2 cans 20 oz each young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce plus extra for serving
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 10 slider buns
? Optional Toppings:
- Coleslaw cabbage + vegan mayo + apple cider vinegar
- Sliced pickles
- Extra BBQ sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Jackfruit:
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit. Using your hands or a fork, shred the jackfruit pieces to create a “pulled” texture.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Season & Simmer:
- Add the shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the jackfruit in the seasonings.
Add BBQ Sauce:
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth. Mix well and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it starts to dry out, add a splash of water.
Caramelize & Thicken:
- Increase the heat slightly and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to develop a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Assemble the Sliders:
- Toast the slider buns if desired. Spoon the BBQ jackfruit onto each bun and top with coleslaw, pickles, and extra BBQ sauce.
Serve & Enjoy!
- These sliders are best served warm with a side of crispy fries, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
Pro Tips:
Want crispier jackfruit? After simmering, spread it onto a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes to enhance texture.
Taste it BEFORE adding ingredients! The jackfruit can sometimes have a bitter after taste boil in water with half an onion and a few garlic cloves—then continue with the instructions above!
Need a gluten-free option? Serve on lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns.
Make it ahead! The jackfruit mixture stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days—just reheat and serve!
Enjoy these BBQ Jackfruit Sliders as the perfect plant-based alternative to pulled pork!
