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BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

⭐ Why You’ll Love Them:

✔️ 100% plant-based & meat-free
✔️ Packed with smoky, tangy BBQ flavor
✔️ Budget-friendly and easy to make
✔️ Great for sandwiches, tacos, or bowls


🧾 Ingredients

  • 2 cans (14 oz each) young green jackfruit in brine or water (NOT syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving:

  • Toasted sandwich buns or rolls
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, red onions, jalapeños, vegan mayo

👩‍🍳 Instructions

🔸 Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit

  1. Drain and rinse the jackfruit.
  2. Remove any seeds and tough core pieces (optional, but helps with texture).
  3. Use your hands or forks to shred the jackfruit slightly — it will pull apart more as it cooks.

🔸 Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

🔸 Step 3: Add Jackfruit & Seasonings

  1. Stir in the shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly brown.

🔸 Step 4: Simmer in BBQ Sauce

  1. Add BBQ sauce, vegetable broth, and apple cider vinegar (if using).
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jackfruit is tender and flavorful.
  3. Uncover and cook another 5 minutes to let the sauce thicken and caramelize slightly.

🔸 Step 5: Serve It Up

  1. Pile the BBQ jackfruit high on toasted buns.
  2. Top with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite sandwich fixings.

🥗 Serving Ideas:

  • Serve with cornbread, sweet potato fries, or baked beans
  • Add to tacos, grain bowls, or stuffed baked potatoes
  • Make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce or sriracha mayo

❄️ Storage & Reheat:

  • Fridge: Store leftovers up to 4 days
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container
  • Reheat: Gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce if needed

❓ FAQs

Where can I find jackfruit?
Most grocery stores carry canned young jackfruit in the international aisle or online. Make sure it’s in water or brine, not syrup.

Can I use fresh jackfruit?
Technically yes, but canned is way easier and more convenient for this style of dish.

Is this gluten-free?
The filling is gluten-free if your BBQ sauce is — just serve it on GF buns if needed!


💡 Final Thoughts

These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are the ultimate meatless comfort food — smoky, saucy, and finger-licking good. Whether you’re plant-based or just jackfruit-curious, this recipe is sure to impress even the biggest BBQ lovers! 🌱🔥🍔

Want a buffalo jackfruit twist, coleslaw recipe, or pulled jackfruit tacos next? Just let me know!

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