Name: BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: BBQ Sauce:; 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce; 2 tablespoons adobo sauce; ½ cup ketchup; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 2 garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; Freshly ground black pepper; Jackfruit:; 1 (20-ounce) can un-ripe jackfruit, drained; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; ½ cup water; Quick Slaw:; 2 cups shredded cabbage; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ½ tablespoon fresh lime juice; ½ teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper; For serving:; 8 slider buns or 6 hamburger buns; Desired fixings like pickles, mustard, serrano peppers, etc.

why make this recipe

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are a fantastic plant-based option that brings smoky, tangy flavors to your table. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a meat substitute that satisfies cravings for BBQ. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to make and packed with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just enjoying a casual meal, these sandwiches are sure to impress.

how to make BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

Ingredients:

BBQ Sauce:

2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce
2 tablespoons adobo sauce
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Freshly ground black pepper

Jackfruit:

1 (20-ounce) can un-ripe jackfruit, drained
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
¼ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup water

Quick Slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
½ tablespoon fresh lime juice
½ teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For serving:

8 slider buns or 6 hamburger buns
Desired fixings like pickles, mustard, serrano peppers, etc.

Directions:

Make the BBQ sauce: In a food processor, blend the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, mustard, paprika, cumin, and a few grinds of pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Prepare the jackfruit: Shred the jackfruit pieces with your hands, discarding any harder pieces of the core. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and salt, cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes until soft.
Cook the jackfruit: Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If necessary, add a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Simmer: Stir in the ½ cup of water and half of the BBQ sauce. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the cover and mix in half of the remaining BBQ sauce, keeping the rest for serving.
Make the slaw: In a medium-large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Serve: Place the jackfruit mixture on slider buns, drizzle with remaining BBQ sauce, top with slaw, and add any desired fixings.

how to serve BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

To serve BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, load the buns with the jackfruit mixture and finish with the quick slaw. Feel free to add additional toppings such as pickles, mustard, or even spicy serrano peppers for an extra kick. These sandwiches are perfect for gatherings and make great finger food!

how to store BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

If you have leftovers, store the jackfruit mixture and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The jackfruit can last for about 3 to 4 days, while the slaw is best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness. When ready to eat, simply reheat the jackfruit mixture in a skillet or microwave.

tips to make BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

Use young green jackfruit to ensure the right texture, as ripe jackfruit is sweet and not suitable for savory dishes.
Adjust the spiciness of your BBQ sauce by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers based on your taste.
Feel free to customize the slaw by adding other veggies or fruits like carrots or apples for an extra crunch.

variation (if any)

For a different take, try adding smoked tempeh with the jackfruit for added protein and texture. You can also switch up the slaw by using different greens like kale or add fruits like diced apples for a sweetness contrast.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned jackfruit instead of fresh?
Yes, canned unripe jackfruit is commonly used in this recipe and is easy to find. Just make sure it’s packed in water or brine and not syrup.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free buns. Always check the labels of your BBQ sauce to ensure they are gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze the jackfruit mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the jackfruit mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before reheating.