Smoky BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches (The Best Vegan Pulled Pork)

Summer is here and your grill is calling. You want something fresh and meat-free today. These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are a total game-changer.

Forget everything you know about vegan swaps. This recipe delivers a smoky, pulled texture. It is addictively delicious and very fast.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

You need a weeknight dinner that feels special. This recipe uses staples to create a restaurant-quality meal. It is budget-friendly and feeds a crowd.

The jackfruit soaks up every drop of sauce. Even meat-lovers will ask for seconds. It is the perfect summer swap for any party.

Easy Cooking Steps

Making these sandwiches is simple and very fast. You just shred fruit and simmer spices. The skillet does the heavy lifting here. You will have tender results every time.

What You Need

Grab these simple pantry staples for a flavor explosion. Fresh produce makes it even better.

• 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 4 vegan hamburger buns
• 1 cup prepared vegan coleslaw

Step-by-Step

1. Drain and rinse the jackfruit. Discard the tough core pieces. Shred the rest with forks.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and all the dry spices. Cook for 1 minute until very fragrant.
4. Stir in shredded jackfruit, sauce, and water. Coat everything evenly.
5. Reduce heat and cover the skillet. Simmer for 20 minutes and stir occasionally.
6. Remove lid and increase the heat slightly. Cook 5-7 minutes to thicken and caramelize.
7. Toast your hamburger buns until golden brown.
8. Spoon BBQ jackfruit onto bun bases. Top with slaw and close.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these sandwiches warm with crispy sweet potato fries. Add a side of pickles for extra crunch. They are perfect for a casual summer potluck.

Keep It Fresh

Store leftover jackfruit in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to four days. Reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water. This makes a fantastic meal prep lunch.

Tips for Best Results

• Use young green jackfruit in brine only.
• Avoid jackfruit packed in syrup or water.
• Rinse the jackfruit well to remove brine taste.
• Shred the jackfruit finely for better texture.
• Use your favorite high-quality BBQ sauce.
• Do not skip toasting the buns.
• Add extra cayenne for more heat.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Add grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Swap buns for crispy corn taco shells.
• Use a spicy habanero sauce for heat.
• Top with pickled jalapeños for a kick.

Common Questions

Does it taste like pork?

The texture is incredibly similar to pulled pork. The BBQ sauce provides the familiar smoky flavor.

Can I freeze the filling?

Yes, the cooked jackfruit freezes very well. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

You are going to love this plant-based twist!

— Jasmine

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup wate r
• 4 vegan hamburger buns
• 1 cup prepared vegan coleslaw

Method

 

1. Drain the jackfruit and rinse thoroughly. Cut off the tough core of each piece and discard. Shred the remaining jackfruit with two forks or by hand to create a pulled texture.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the shredded jackfruit, barbecue sauce, and water. Ensure the jackfruit is evenly coated.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the lid and increase heat slightly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes to thicken the sauce and allow the jackfruit to slightly caramelize.
7. Toast the hamburger buns until golden brown.
8. Assemble the sandwiches by spooning the BBQ jackfruit onto the bun bases, topping with coleslaw, and closing with the top buns.