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.
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Recipe
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.
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add jackfruit-tofu mixture, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Sauté for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in ½ cup barbecue sauce and water. Simmer on medium-low heat for 7-10 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in remaining BBQ sauce, and serve on toasted buns with slaw.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 283 kcal |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 23mg |
| Sodium | 654mg |
| Carbohydrates | 46g |
| Protein | 8g |
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!
