Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders are a plant-based twist on a barbecue classic. These sliders feature tender jackfruit cooked in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, served on soft slider buns, and topped with crunchy coleslaw for the perfect balance of textures and flavors. They’re great for parties, casual dinners, or when you’re craving a comfort food favorite without the meat.
1. What Are Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders?
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that, when cooked, shreds easily into a texture similar to pulled pork. It absorbs flavors beautifully, making it the perfect base for BBQ sliders. These sliders combine the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of barbecue sauce with tender jackfruit and crisp coleslaw for a delicious bite-sized treat.
Why Are They So Popular?
- Plant-Based Alternative: Perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients.
- Flavor-Packed: Combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in one bite.
Perfect For:
- Game-day snacks
- Backyard barbecues
- Meatless Mondays
2. Ingredients for Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Core Ingredients:
- Jackfruit: Canned young green jackfruit in water or brine (not syrup).
- BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.
- Onion and Garlic: Sautéed for flavor.
- Slider Buns: Soft buns for assembling the sliders.
For the Coleslaw:
- Cabbage and Carrots: Shredded for the base.
- Vegan Mayo: For creaminess.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tang.
- Dijon Mustard: For depth of flavor.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Pickles: For a tangy crunch.
- Jalapeños: For a spicy kick.
- Sesame Seeds: To garnish the buns.
3. Preparing the Jackfruit
1. Drain and Rinse:
- Drain the canned jackfruit and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove the brine.
2. Shred the Jackfruit:
- Use your hands or a fork to pull apart the jackfruit into a shredded texture. Remove any tough cores or seeds.
4. Cooking the BBQ Jackfruit
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Cook the Jackfruit:
- Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and season with:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- A pinch of salt and pepper
3. Add BBQ Sauce:
- Stir in 1 cup of BBQ sauce and a splash of water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and infused with the sauce.
4. Optional Step:
- For a caramelized texture, spread the cooked jackfruit on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy.
5. Making the Coleslaw
1. Prepare the Veggies:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots.
2. Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ¼ cup vegan mayo
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- A pinch of salt and pepper
3. Toss and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Assembling the Sliders
1. Toast the Buns:
- Lightly toast the slider buns for extra texture.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread a layer of BBQ jackfruit on the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with a generous scoop of coleslaw.
- Add pickles or jalapeños if desired, and place the top bun on.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve warm.
7. Serving Suggestions
1. Pair With:
- Sweet potato fries or roasted potatoes.
- A side of baked beans or corn on the cob.
2. Drinks:
- Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer for a classic BBQ pairing.
8. Tips for the Best Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
- Use Young Green Jackfruit: Ensure you’re using unripe jackfruit for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Cooking the jackfruit with aromatics and spices enhances its flavor.
- Customize the BBQ Sauce: Sweet, smoky, or spicy—choose a sauce that suits your taste.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the jackfruit and coleslaw in advance for easy assembly.
9. Variations to Try
1. Spicy Sriracha BBQ:
- Add sriracha or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy version.
2. Hawaiian Twist:
- Top with pineapple slices for a sweet and tangy contrast.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
- Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead of slider buns.
4. Smoky BBQ:
- Add a drop of liquid smoke to the jackfruit for an extra smoky flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
Yes, but fresh jackfruit requires peeling and preparation. Use the unripe fruit for the best results.
2. What if I don’t have vegan mayo for the coleslaw?
Substitute with plain coconut yogurt or tahini for a creamy alternative.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the jackfruit and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze the cooked jackfruit?
Yes, freeze the BBQ jackfruit in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
5. What’s the best way to reheat the jackfruit?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce.
6. Can I make this oil-free?
Yes, sauté the aromatics in vegetable broth instead of oil.
7. Can I use a different base instead of buns?
Serve the BBQ jackfruit over baked potatoes, rice, or even in tacos.
8. Is jackfruit high in protein?
Jackfruit is low in protein. Pair it with a side of beans or a protein-rich dish to round out the meal.
9. Can I skip the coleslaw?
Yes, but the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the BBQ flavors.
10. How many sliders does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 8-10 sliders, depending on the size of the buns.