Jackpot in a Bun: The Fruity Phenomenon That’s Fooling BBQ Veterans!

If you’re craving a smoky, tangy BBQ sandwich but want to keep it plant-based, this BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich is going to blow you away! Jackfruit works wonders as a meat substitute, mimicking the texture of pulled pork while soaking up that sweet, tangy BBQ sauce.

I stumbled upon this recipe when I wanted a vegan alternative to a classic BBQ sandwich, and it’s been a hit at every summer cookout since. With the jackfruit’s tender texture and the rich, smoky flavors, it’s hard to believe it’s entirely plant-based.

For an extra pop of flavor, serve it alongside Sweet Pickles to add a tangy crunch, and drizzle some Vegan Ranch on top for a creamy, cool contrast to the bold BBQ sauce. It’s a perfect combination that takes the sandwich to the next level!

Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering, a backyard BBQ, or just a quick weeknight dinner, this sandwich is a winner that’ll please vegans and non-vegans alike.

Top-down view of BBQ jackfruit-tofu mixture being spooned onto toasted burger buns, topped with pineapple coleslaw or simple slaw. The sandwich is colorful and hearty, ready to serve with rich barbecue and refreshing slaw.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Recipe

This BBQ jackfruit and tofu sandwich offers a delicious plant-based alternative to classic BBQ. Juicy jackfruit, smoky spices, and creamy slaw make for a hearty, flavorful bite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American BBQ
Servings 8
Calories 283 kcal

Equipment

  • Large sauté pan
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Box grater
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 14 ounce can jackfruit in brine 7.9 ounce or 224g drained weight
  • 8 ounces super firm tofu* or sub 1 more can jackfruit
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 3/4 cup barbecue sauce divided
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 8 burger buns
  • Pineapple Coleslaw or tri-color slaw

Instructions
 

  • Drain and rinse jackfruit, shred using fingers, and remove any seeds or firm pieces. Grate tofu using a box grater. Combine jackfruit and tofu.
    Top-down view of a clean kitchen countertop with a drained can of jackfruit being shredded by hand, seeds and firm pieces removed. Next to it, super firm tofu is being grated using a box grater. The shredded jackfruit and grated tofu are combined in a bowl, ready for cooking.
  • Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
    Top-down view of a large pan on a white marble cooktop with avocado oil heating. Thinly sliced red onions are being sautéed until translucent and golden, sizzling in the hot oil for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add jackfruit-tofu mixture, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Sauté for 3-5 minutes.
    Top-down view of the jackfruit-tofu mixture being added to the sautéed onions in a pan. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt are sprinkled over the mixture. The mixture is sautéing, absorbing the spices and turning light golden.
  • Stir in ½ cup barbecue sauce and water. Simmer on medium-low heat for 7-10 minutes until thickened.
    Top-down view of the jackfruit-tofu mixture, glossy and rich with BBQ sauce, after simmering. The final ¼ cup of barbecue sauce is being stirred in, creating a deep, smoky flavor. The scene highlights the thick, flavorful mixture.
  • Remove from heat, stir in remaining BBQ sauce, and serve on toasted buns with slaw.
    Top-down view of BBQ jackfruit-tofu mixture being spooned onto toasted burger buns, topped with pineapple coleslaw or simple slaw. The sandwich is colorful and hearty, ready to serve with rich barbecue and refreshing slaw.

Nutrition Facts:

NutritionValue
Calories283 kcal
Fat8g
Sugar23mg
Sodium654mg
Carbohydrates46g
Protein8g

Exciting Recipe Variations to Experiment With BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich!

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and gluten-free burger buns for this recipe.
  • Tofu Substitute: Replace the shredded tofu with mashed white beans like cannellini or chickpeas.
  • Easy Coleslaw Topping: If you’re short on time, mix 3 cups of shredded red or green cabbage with 1 cup of shredded carrot, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of oil, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for a quick coleslaw.
  • Add Some Spice: Blend a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce with the barbecue sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Mini Jackfruit Sliders: Make the recipe as usual, but serve it on slider buns for fun, bite-sized sandwiches—perfect for parties!

Perfect Pairings for Your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich!

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