Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with BBQ

Name: Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with BBQ
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can (20 oz) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade); 6 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw (optional toppings); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up these Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with BBQ for gatherings and family dinners. The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork, soaking up all the smoky and tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce beautifully. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a plant-based dish that's hearty and satisfying. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and I often serve them with crispy coleslaw to add a perfect crunch. Trust me, these sliders are a crowd favorite that will leave everyone asking for more!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-06T20:37:27.846Z

When I first discovered jackfruit, I couldn't believe how closely it resembled pulled meat. I knew I needed to experiment. After trying various cooking methods, I found that slow-cooking the jackfruit in homemade BBQ sauce really brings out its flavor and texture. My family couldn't get enough, and I was thrilled to serve them a delicious meal that was also plant-based.

One of my favorite tips is to let the jackfruit marinate in the sauce for a bit before cooking. This way, it absorbs even more flavor and becomes tender. I usually serve the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries, making it an incredibly satisfying meal. You won't miss the meat at all with these sliders!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Incredibly savory BBQ flavor that satisfies every craving
A deliciously messy, fun-to-eat slider experience
Perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining guests

      

Essential Tips for Perfecting Jackfruit

When working with young green jackfruit, it's crucial to ensure you're using the right variety. Look for canned young green jackfruit in brine rather than syrup, as the latter is too sweet for savory dishes. Rinsing the jackfruit not only helps reduce sodium but also eliminates any residual brine flavor, allowing the barbecue sauce to shine. This simple step sets the stage for deeper flavor absorption during cooking.

To achieve the ideal texture, pay attention to the shredding process after cooking. Once your jackfruit has simmered in BBQ sauce, it should be tender enough to pull apart easily with forks. For a more authentic 'pulled meat' experience, shred it thoroughly but avoid over-masticating, as this can lead to a mushy consistency. Aim for pieces that still retain some structure to create a satisfying mouthfeel in every bite.

Making the Most of Your BBQ Sauce

The choice of BBQ sauce can significantly impact the overall flavor profile of your sliders. If you prefer a particular flavor, consider making your own sauce by combining ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. A homemade sauce allows for customization; you can increase the heat with cayenne or add a splash of liquid smoke for extra depth. Store-bought options are also fine, but ensure you choose one that complements the spices used in the jackfruit preparation.

If you want an added layer of texture, mix in some sautéed onions or garlic with the jackfruit before adding the BBQ sauce. This not only builds flavor complexity but also enhances aroma, making your sliders even more irresistible. Additionally, don’t hesitate to elevate your BBQ sauce by mixing in other ingredients like mustard or Worcestershire sauce for a bold twist.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

For an irresistible slider platter, consider pairing your pulled jackfruit with various toppings. Think sliced jalapeños, pickles, or a dollop of creamy vegan mayo; each addition brings crunch and contrasting flavors that elevate these sliders. If you're serving for a gathering, stack the sliders on a platter and allow guests to customize their toppings—it's fun and interactive, making the meal more memorable.

If you have leftovers, you can store the pulled jackfruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, consider freezing the jackfruit mixture; it keeps well for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight before reheating for a hassle-free meal!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 can (20 oz) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
6 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw (optional toppings)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained jackfruit, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly golden.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour in the BBQ sauce, stirring well to coat the jackfruit. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Prepare the Buns

While the jackfruit cooks, you can toast the slider buns on a grill or in a toaster oven until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the jackfruit is tender, use two forks to shred it. Pile the BBQ jackfruit onto the toasted sliders and add coleslaw if desired.

Serve

Enjoy your pulled jackfruit sliders warm, accompanied by your favorite sides.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the jackfruit marinate in the BBQ sauce overnight. Serve with pickles for an added crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're aiming for a different texture or flavor, there are several substitutions you can consider for this recipe. For instance, you could replace jackfruit with shredded mushrooms or tempeh, both of which absorb sauces well and deliver a similar heartiness. Just be cautious with seasoning these alternatives to ensure they complement the BBQ sauce effectively. When substituting, sauté them briefly before adding the sauce to enhance their intrinsic flavors.

For those following a gluten-free diet, slider buns made from almond flour or coconut flour are great alternatives. Even lettuce wraps can serve as a fresh and low-carb option. Just be mindful of the moisture content in the filling—if it seems too runny, you might want to drain off excess BBQ sauce before assembling the sliders.

Creative Variations

Consider experimenting with flavor profiles beyond traditional BBQ. For a Mediterranean twist, you can season the jackfruit with garlic, lemon, and oregano instead of paprika and BBQ sauce. Serve with tzatziki sauce and warm pita for a refreshing change of pace. This versatility allows the base recipe to adapt to whatever cuisine you’re in the mood for while still being deliciously plant-based.

Another variation is to infuse some spice into your meal by incorporating chipotle in adobo sauce to add smokiness and heat to the jackfruit. This adds a delightful smokiness that pairs fantastically with creamy coleslaw. Serve alongside some spicy pickled vegetables for an extra kick and a delightful contrast in flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the jackfruit in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair well with sweet potato fries, chips, or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

→ Is jackfruit healthy?

Yes! Jackfruit is low in calories and fat, and it's a good source of fiber.

→ Can I use other sauces?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces, like teriyaki or a spicy chili sauce, for a unique twist.