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These BBQ Jackfruit Pulled-Pork Sliders deliver all the smoky, saucy satisfaction of classic pulled pork but in a completely plant-based form. Tender jackfruit is simmered in flavorful BBQ sauce and heaped onto soft slider buns, then topped with creamy vegan coleslaw for a crisp and tangy crunch. This is my go-to for summer gatherings when I want to wow guests without using any animal products.
These sliders first won me over during a Fourth of July picnic when everyone asked for seconds—even those who swore by traditional barbecue. There is something about the combination of smoky jackfruit and crisp slaw that just works every time.
Ingredients
- Young green jackfruit in brine: This ingredient shreds into a pulled pork texture Make sure to buy jackfruit in brine not syrup and rinse well to get rid of the briny taste
- Olive oil: Helps the aromatics sauté and releases flavors Use extra virgin for best results
- Onion and garlic: The backbone of savory flavor Look for fresh and firm pieces without green shoots
- Smoked paprika: Adds deep smokiness to the jackfruit Spanish paprika offers extra depth if you can find it
- Ground cumin and chili powder: These spices bring warmth and a gentle kick Always check freshness for max flavor punch
- Black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning Use freshly cracked black pepper when possible
- Vegan BBQ sauce: Sweet and tangy sauce coats the jackfruit Choose one with simple natural ingredients
- Maple syrup: Optional but adds subtle sweetness Look for 100 percent pure maple syrup
- Green and red cabbage: Forms the crisp base of the coleslaw Pick cabbages that feel heavy for size and have crisp leaves
- Carrot: Brings color and sweetness Opt for carrots that are firm and deeply colored
- Parsley: Freshness boosted with a handful of herbs Curly or Italian flat-leaf work great
- Vegan mayonnaise: Creamy binder for the slaw Use your favorite or make from scratch
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens and balances flavors Look for raw unfiltered types for added tang
- Dijon mustard: Adds gentle heat and complexity Choose a smooth mustard for best mixing
- Mini slider buns: Soft rolls to sandwich all the goodness inside Check that they are vegan and fresh
- Vegan butter or margarine: Optional for toasting buns Choose one with simple wholesome ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Jackfruit:
- Shred the drained and rinsed jackfruit using your hands or two forks until the pieces resemble pulled pork Remove any seeds or tougher core bits to ensure a tender texture
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat and heat until shimmering Add finely chopped onion and cook gently for three minutes until softened but not browned Stir in minced garlic and sauté for one more minute until fragrant
- Spice It Up:
- Stir in smoked paprika ground cumin chili powder and black pepper Let the spices toast in the oil for thirty seconds to unlock their full aroma and depth
- Cook the Jackfruit:
- Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet Stir well and let it cook for five minutes so it can pick up the smoky flavors Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning
- Simmer With Sauce:
- Pour in the vegan BBQ sauce and add maple syrup if desired Mix thoroughly Then cover and let the mixture simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes lifting the lid and stirring every few minutes Continue until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce thickens to a glossy finish Taste and season with salt as needed
- Make the Vegan Coleslaw:
- In a large mixing bowl gently toss green cabbage red cabbage grated carrot and chopped parsley together In a separate small bowl whisk vegan mayonnaise apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard maple syrup a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth Pour the dressing over cabbage mixture Toss until everything is evenly coated Refrigerate for best texture and flavor
- Prepare the Buns:
- If you like a golden crust lightly brush the cut sides of each bun with vegan butter Place them in a hot skillet or under a broiler for a minute until golden and warmed through
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Spoon generous portions of BBQ jackfruit mixture onto each lower bun Layer each with a big helping of crunchy coleslaw Cap with the top bun and press down gently Serve right away for best juiciness and slaw crunch
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Storage Tips
Keep unassembled jackfruit and coleslaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge Both stay fresh up to three days Reheat jackfruit filling gently in a skillet with a little extra BBQ sauce if needed Avoid storing assembled sliders so buns do not go soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find jackfruit try shredded king oyster mushrooms or canned young banana blossom For the slaw you can use ready-made vegan coleslaw mix or swap parsley for cilantro For a gluten free option find gluten free slider buns
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sliders with sweet potato fries pickles or a simple corn salad For parties I will sometimes top sliders with extra hot sauce or a quick pickle of red onions They also make a great lunchbox surprise when packed separately
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Cultural and Historical Context
Jackfruit has been used in South and Southeast Asian cooking for centuries but its meaty texture makes it a favorite for vegan barbecue recipes as a pulled pork substitute It is a fun modern twist on American BBQ traditions that brings big flavor to plant based diets
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes jackfruit a good pulled pork alternative?
Jackfruit has a meaty texture that shreds well, absorbs smoky sauces, and delivers a satisfying bite, perfect for barbecue-style dishes.
- → Can I prepare the jackfruit ahead of time?
Yes, the jackfruit mixture can be cooked in advance and reheated when ready to assemble the sliders, making meal prep simple.
- → Is the coleslaw dressing fully vegan?
The dressing uses vegan mayonnaise and plant-based sweetener, ensuring it is dairy- and egg-free. Check labels for additional allergens.
- → What buns work best for these sliders?
Look for soft, mini slider buns that are vegan-friendly. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free slider buns as a substitute.
- → How can I add extra smokiness?
Stir a small amount of liquid smoke into the jackfruit mixture or choose a smoky BBQ sauce for deeper flavor.