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BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

A tantalizing vegan dish featuring tender jackfruit in rich barbecue sauce, served on toasted buns with optional toppings.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Vegan
Keyword: BBQ Jackfruit, comfort food, Plant-Based, Pulled Jackfruit, Vegan Sandwich
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cans young green jackfruit packed in water or brine (about 20 oz each) The star of the dish, jackfruit has a slightly chewy, tender texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste Rich and thick, it brings a velvety thickness and infuses the dish with sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Adds zesty brightness.
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup Enhances the barbecue sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Imparts a deep smoky essence.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Adds subtle aromatic depth.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Forms the flavor base of the filling.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Brings brightness and aroma.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Essential for sautéing.
  • 4 pieces sandwich buns Soft and sturdy, gluten-free buns optional.

Optional Toppings

  • Pickles For crunch.
  • Coleslaw For freshness.
  • Vegan cheese For creaminess.
  • Jalapeños For heat.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Start by draining and rinsing the young green jackfruit thoroughly to remove any excess brine. Shred the jackfruit into pull-apart strands that mimic pulled pork.

Cooking

  • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in your homemade barbecue sauce made from the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir to combine, then let it simmer together for 15-20 minutes.
  • Lightly brush your sandwich buns with oil or vegan butter and toast them in a skillet or oven until golden and crisp.

Assembly

  • Pile generous amounts of the BBQ jackfruit mixture onto the toasted buns. Add preferred toppings like pickles, coleslaw, or vegan cheese.

Notes

Let the dish simmer longer for deeper flavors. Ensure to rinse jackfruit well to avoid excess brine.