BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Tangy Apple Slaw Recipe
Looking for a plant-based dish that's bursting with flavor? These BBQ jackfruit sliders are a delightful alternative to traditional pulled pork, perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slider buns
- 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
- 1 apple, julienned
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Jackfruit: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the jackfruit, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and starts to shred.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of BBQ sauce and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the jackfruit is well coated and heated through.
- Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, julienned apple, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns if desired. Pile the BBQ jackfruit onto the bottom half of each bun, top with a generous amount of apple slaw, and finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sliders warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Cook’s tips
- Use a fork to shred the jackfruit while it cooks for a more pulled-pork texture.
- Toast the buns in a dry skillet for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess.
- Let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the jackfruit.
Substitutions
- Use regular cabbage instead of green cabbage if preferred.
- Swap the apple for pear or jicama for a different crunch.
- Use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and slider buns to make it gluten-free.
- Replace maple syrup with agave nectar or honey (if not vegan).
- Use any type of BBQ sauce, such as spicy or hickory-smoked.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover jackfruit and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the jackfruit in a skillet or microwave, and serve with fresh slaw.
Frequently asked questions
What is jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a large tropical fruit that, when unripe, has a meaty texture that shreds like pulled pork. It's a popular plant-based meat substitute.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jackfruit and slaw ahead, but assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegan BBQ sauce and slider buns, all ingredients are plant-based.
Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?
Yes, but canned jackfruit is easier and more convenient. If using fresh, you'll need to cook it longer and ensure it's young/green.
