This vegan jackfruit BBQ pulled pork recipe is a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional pulled pork. Jackfruit has a meaty texture that perfectly mimics pulled pork when cooked and shredded. It's infused with smoky and tangy barbecue flavors that will leave you craving for more. Serve it on a soft bun with your favorite coleslaw or as a filling for tacos or burritos. It's a perfect dish for any barbecue or summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in water or brine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced red onion
Directions
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit. Using your hands, shred the jackfruit into small pieces, discarding any tough cores or seeds.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the jackfruit in the skillet. Stir until the jackfruit is well coated with the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the jackfruit absorb the flavors and become tender.
- Once the jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Place a generous amount of the jackfruit BBQ pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, pickles, and sliced red onion if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit native to South and Southeast Asia.
It is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, weighing up to 80 pounds.
Jackfruit is often used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian recipes due to its fibrous texture.
The fruit is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
Jackfruit has a naturally sweet taste, making it a versatile ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes.