BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Recipe
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
This plant-based delight is a game-changer for both vegans and BBQ enthusiasts. Jackfruit, with its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors, serves as the perfect substitute for traditional meat.
Hello summer! When I think of summer, I think of sunshine, beach, and BBQ. As a longtime vegetarian, I remember the old days when BBQ’s meant I could only eat some roasted veggies and maybe a can of baked beans, if I was lucky.
BUT, we’re living in the golden age of vegan food, my friends. Jackfruit has become a great meat substitute thanks to it’s chameleon-like taste and texture. Jackfruit will taste like whatever you want it to, and its naturally meaty texture makes it perfect for BBQ-ing.
Today I’m going to take your taste buds on a tantalizing journey with this smoky and savory vegan BBQ jackfruit recipe. This plant-based delight is a game-changer for both vegans and BBQ enthusiasts. Jackfruit, with its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors, serves as the perfect substitute for traditional meat.
So, fire up your grill, gather up your ingredients, and let's dive into the wonderful world of vegan BBQ with this mouthwatering jackfruit recipe!
What is jackfruit?
Native to tropical regions, jackfruit is a large, green fruit that's becoming increasingly popular in vegan and vegetarian cooking. Its unique texture and ability to mimic meat when cooked make it a perfect substitute in various dishes.
What does BBQ jackfruit taste like?
Similar to tofu, jackfruit has little flavor on its own, but it will taste like whatever you season it with. BBQ jackfruit tastes very similar to BBQ pulled pork, thanks to the seasonings and cooking techniques that we use for this plant based recipe.
Is jackfruit good for you?
Yes! Jackfruit is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
How do you make BBQ jackfruit at home?
Creating a flavorful BBQ jackfruit requires understanding the technique behind it. The key lies in properly seasoning the jackfruit to infuse it with smoky and tangy flavors.
Additionally, the cooking process involves simmering and shredding the jackfruit, giving it the desired “pulled pork”-like texture. With the right combination of spices and sauces, you'll achieve a mouthwatering BBQ experience that's completely plant-based.
What are the ingredients for this BBQ jackfruit recipe?
The full ingredient list for this BBQ jackfruit is down below, but here is the gist of it:
Canned jackfruit, which you can find at many grocery stores, like Trader Joe’s.
BBQ sauce, use your favorite brand!
Seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder.
Coleslaw goes great with these BBQ jackfruit sandwiches.
Avocado, cilantro, and jalapeno are the base of our creamy sauce that’s drizzled on top.
Flatbread or hamburger buns, I really like the Stonefire brand.
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Ingredients
- 20 oz can of green jackfruit*
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar (sub: brown sugar)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 c BBQ sauce, use your favorite!
- Flatbread, or hamburger buns
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 2 c fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/2 jalapeño, seeds removed
- 1/2 c water
- 1/4 c olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 7 oz classic coleslaw
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit under cool water. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Toss the jackfruit in the seasonings.
- Drizzle oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add in the seasoned jackfruit and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add the BBQ sauce, and mix thoroughly to coat the jackfruit. Use a fork to mash and shred the jackfruit so it achieves a "pulled pork" texture.
- Add 1/2 c - 1 c of water and cover the pan with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until jackfruit is cooked through and tender. Check to add more water, as needed.
- Add all of the ingredients, except the coleslaw, into a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Mix the coleslaw with about 1/2 c of the avocado cream. Reserve the remaining cream for drizzling on top of the jackfruit.
- To make the sandwiches, top the flatbread, or hamburger buns, with jackfruit and avocado slaw. Drizzle additional avocado cream on top. Enjoy warm!
Notes
*I use the Trader Joe's brand of canned green jackfruit, but you can also find canned jackfruit in many grocery stores, esp. speciality food stores. This recipe also works if you use 2- 14oz cans of jackfruit, too.
I started salt n sprinkles to show that making good food is both fun and easy to do. My recipes are mostly plant-based, and always delicious. I know you'll find just what you're looking for!