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BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are a flavorful, easy-to-make vegan dish that transforms young green jackfruit with smoky barbecue sauce into a delicious pulled-meat alternative. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings, this plant-based recipe boasts rich texture, versatile serving options, and simple ingredients for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky, tangy, or your favorite flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 sandwich buns or bread rolls (gluten-free if preferred)

Optional Toppings

  • Vegan coleslaw
  • Pickles
  • Fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro)
  • Vegan cheese slices

Optional Variations

  • Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots (extra veggies)
  • Cayenne pepper or sriracha (for added heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jackfruit: Drain and rinse the canned young green jackfruit thoroughly. Remove any seeds or tough cores, then shred the jackfruit into strands using your hands or forks to mimic pulled meat texture.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes, creating a savory flavor base.
  3. Cook the Jackfruit: Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and stir occasionally. Sprinkle smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over it. Allow the jackfruit to brown lightly for around 5 minutes to develop texture and richness.
  4. Add BBQ Sauce and Simmer: Pour your chosen barbecue sauce over the jackfruit, stirring well to coat all the strands evenly. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
  5. Toast the Buns and Assemble: Lightly toast the sandwich buns to add texture and warmth. Generously pile the BBQ jackfruit onto the buns, then top with optional vegan coleslaw, pickles, fresh herbs, or vegan cheese as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use young green jackfruit in brine or water, not jackfruit in syrup, to avoid unwanted sweetness and maintain a savory flavor.
  • Take your time shredding the jackfruit well for the best pulled meat-like texture.
  • Don’t skip the simmering step, as it deepens and intensifies the flavor of the dish.
  • Choosing a smoky BBQ sauce enhances the authentic barbecue taste.
  • Toasting the buns adds a pleasant crunch and prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, vegan pulled jackfruit, plant-based BBQ, gluten-free sandwiches, vegan barbecue, easy vegan dinner