There’s something magical about the sound of sizzling BBQ that brings people together, and you don’t have to be a meat-eater to enjoy it. Enter my BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches—an incredible plant-based option that will make you second-guess whether you’re really enjoying a vegan dish! These sandwiches not only transform young jackfruit into a delectable alternative to pulled pork, but they are also a quick-to-make solution that’s perfect for meal prep. With a creamy vegan coleslaw piled high on top and slices of creamy avocado, this dish packs a punch of flavor and nutrition in every bite. Plus, it’s a delightful crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. Curious to know how to whip up this smoky, savory delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches Are Amazing?
Vegan Delight: Experience the rich flavor and satisfying texture of pulled pork without any meat. These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are an innovative and delicious choice for everyone!
Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up! Try the BBQ jackfruit in tacos or power bowls for a fun twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, these sandwiches will impress both veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike!
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber and healthy ingredients, they make for a hearty yet guilt-free meal option.
Don’t miss the chance to serve these BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches alongside Butter Honey Bbq or One Pan Tangy dishes for an unforgettable feast!
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Ingredients
• Ready to create your flavorful BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches? Let’s gather the essentials!
For the Jackfruit
- Young Jackfruit – The star of the show, providing a pulled pork-like texture; rinse and shred for added flavor.
- BBQ Seasoning Blend – Enhances the jackfruit’s taste; feel free to swap it with your preferred barbecue rub.
- Fine Sea Salt – Elevates all the flavors; adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly ground will give you the best flavor.
- Vegan BBQ Sauce – Infuses moisture and flavor; choose a Kansas City style or a brand you love.
- Water – Used for adjusting the consistency; you can also use vegetable broth for a richer taste.
For the Vegan Coleslaw
- Cashews – Create a creamy dressing; soak in water for better blending and texture.
- Boiled Water – Softens cashews for a smooth blend.
- Garlic – Brings aromatic depth; adjust or omit based on your preference.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness; vinegar can be substituted for an alternate flavor.
- Maple Syrup – Balances the acidity; honey works as a non-vegan substitute.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Gives a tangy kick; feel free to use white vinegar as an alternative.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a spicy note; yellow mustard is an acceptable replacement.
- Power Greens Coleslaw Blend – Provides fiber and crunch; any cabbage mix will work in a pinch.
For Assembling
- Buns – Use gluten-free or vegan buns as needed to match dietary preferences.
Now that you’re equipped with these ingredients, you’re ready to create BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches that will ignite your taste buds and satisfy everyone around the table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit
Start by draining and rinsing the canned young jackfruit under cold water to remove any brine flavors, ensuring a fresh taste. Next, use your hands or forks to shred the soft parts of the jackfruit, discarding any tough cores. Set the shredded jackfruit aside in a bowl, ready to absorb all those delicious BBQ flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Jackfruit
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the shredded jackfruit along with BBQ seasoning, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit starts to get tender and fragrant, absorbing the spices and enhancing the flavor profile of your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches.
Step 3: Add Sauces
Once the jackfruit is nicely cooked, stir in your choice of vegan BBQ sauce and enough water to adjust the consistency. Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 2 minutes over low heat, gently stirring occasionally. The jackfruit should become juicy and well-coated, ready to serve on your sandwich.
Step 4: Make the Vegan Coleslaw
While the jackfruit simmers, prepare your creamy coleslaw. Soak cashews in boiled water for 5 minutes to soften them. Drain the water and, using a blender, combine the softened cashews with garlic, lemon juice, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a delightful dressing for your coleslaw.
Step 5: Mix Coleslaw
In a large bowl, pour the creamy dressing over the power greens coleslaw blend. Toss everything together well until all the greens are nicely coated with dressing. The vibrant colors and textures will create a beautiful contrast on your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, enhancing both taste and presentation.
Step 6: Assemble Sandwiches
To assemble your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, start by placing a generous portion of the BBQ jackfruit mixture on each bun. Top it with a generous helping of the creamy vegan coleslaw, followed by slices of creamy avocado for an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately, and relish the delicious combination of tastes and textures.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Fridge: Store leftover jackfruit and coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Assembling just before serving helps maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the BBQ jackfruit mixture in a zipped freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the jackfruit in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Coleslaw can be served cold directly from the fridge, maintaining its crunch.
Assembly Tips: For the best experience, store buns separately to prevent them from becoming soggy, ensuring your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches remain delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the BBQ jackfruit mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the cooking instructions until you add the BBQ sauce and water, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy vegan coleslaw can also be made ahead; just mix it together and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to keep it fresh. When ready to serve, reheat the jackfruit mixture gently on the stovetop and assemble the sandwiches with coleslaw and avocado. This ensures that your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are just as delicious and convenient for your busy weeknights!
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches Variations & Substitutions
Explore the endless possibilities to customize your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches and make them your own!
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Gluten-Free Buns: Use gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. Pair them with fresh toppings for an extra zing!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the jackfruit for a more intense barbecue flavor. This simple swap takes your sandwiches to the next level!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the jackfruit mixture before serving. It brings a delightful warmth!
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Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or crunchy fried onions on top of your coleslaw for added texture. This twist adds both crunch and visual appeal to your sandwiches.
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Avocado Swap: If you’re out of avocados, creamy mashed chickpeas can provide a similar texture without missing out on that delicious creaminess.
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BBQ Bowl: Transform your BBQ jackfruit into a power bowl by serving it over quinoa or brown rice with a generous topping of coleslaw. It’s a nutritious spin that will satisfy any appetite!
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Stuffed Peppers: Use the BBQ jackfruit mixture toStuff bell peppers for a flavorful, filling dish. Just bake until the peppers are tender, and enjoy a new take on your favorite filling.
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Tacos: Swap out the buns for corn or flour tortillas, creating delightful BBQ jackfruit tacos bursting with flavor! Top with coleslaw and enjoy the fusion of textures.
With so many ways to enjoy BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, feel free to experiment and create the perfect meal for any occasion! Want more recipe inspiration? Check out my flavorful Butter Honey Bbq or try a hearty One Pan Tangy dish!
Expert Tips for BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
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Rinse Well: Ensure to rinse canned jackfruit thoroughly to eliminate any brine flavors that might overpower your sandwich.
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Customize Sauce: Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preferences. Start with less and add more until it’s just right!
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Texture Matters: For added crunch, incorporate colorful cabbages in your coleslaw. They not only look beautiful but enhance the overall texture.
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Prevent Soggy Buns: Assemble the sandwiches right before serving, or keep the jackfruit and coleslaw separate until ready to eat to avoid soggy buns.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Soaking cashews helps create a smooth dressing. If you blend them well, you won’t miss the dairy in these BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches!
What to Serve with BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Elevate your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that will tickle your taste buds.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these fries add a comforting touch that complements the smoky flavors of the jackfruit.
- Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy side of traditional coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that enhances the rich taste of the sandwiches.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn adds a fun and vibrant element to your meal, balancing out the savory jackfruit.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad adds a refreshing and cool bite that contrasts nicely with the hearty sandwiches.
- Sangria or Iced Tea: A fruity sangria or a refreshing iced tea will elevate your dining experience, perfectly complementing the spices in the BBQ sauce.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, a creamy chocolate avocado mousse makes a rich yet guilt-free treat to satisfy your sweet tooth after a savory meal.
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best young jackfruit?
Absolutely! When choosing young jackfruit, look for canned options labeled as “green” or “young” to ensure they have the right texture. The fruit should be relatively firm with minimal moisture. Avoid any cans with dark spots or bulging lids, as these might indicate spoilage.
How long can I store BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich leftovers?
Very! Leftover BBQ jackfruit and coleslaw can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When storing, keep them separate if possible to prevent the buns from getting soggy, ensuring they stay fresh for your next meal.
Can I freeze BBQ jackfruit for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled BBQ jackfruit in a zipped freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat it in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through.
What should I do if my jackfruit is too tough?
Not to worry! If you find the jackfruit is too tough after cooking, it likely needs more time to simmer. Just add a little bit of water to the skillet and cover it with a lid, letting it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring periodically. This will help it soften and absorb more flavor—perfect for a delicious BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich!
Are BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid feeding it to pets. Ingredients like BBQ sauce and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. Stick to plain fruits and vegetables designed for pet consumption when treating your furry friends!
Can I make BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches gluten-free?
Very much so! Simply ensure you use gluten-free buns to accommodate any dietary restrictions. The rest of the ingredients in this recipe are already gluten-free, making it a great option for those looking for gluten-free meal ideas. Enjoy these flavorful BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches without concern!
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches That Ignite Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Drain and rinse the canned young jackfruit under cold water.
- Shred the soft parts of the jackfruit, discarding any tough cores.
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
- Add the shredded jackfruit with BBQ seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in vegan BBQ sauce and water to adjust consistency. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Soak cashews in boiled water for 5 minutes, then blend with garlic, lemon juice, syrup, vinegar, and mustard.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mix, tossing everything well.
- Place jackfruit mixture on each bun, top with coleslaw, and serve immediately.
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