Sliders with BBQ Jackfruit

Name: Sliders with BBQ Jackfruit
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade); Salt and pepper to taste; 8 slider buns; Coleslaw (for topping, optional)

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I absolutely love making sliders with BBQ jackfruit because they offer a delicious, plant-based twist on a classic dish. The tender, pulled jackfruit soaked in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce creates a satisfying filling that's perfect for any gathering. I discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to impress my friends with a meat-free option during a game day party. Not only did it win rave reviews, but it also turned out to be incredibly easy to prepare, making it a staple in my recipe rotation.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:25:34.565Z

I remember the first time I tried BBQ jackfruit. I was skeptical at first, but one bite and I was sold! The jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork perfectly, and when mixed with my homemade BBQ sauce, it transforms into a mouthwatering filling. The best part? It’s completely plant-based, so it’s a great option for everyone at the table.

This recipe is my go-to for gatherings because it’s not only a hit with vegans, but it surprises meat-eaters too. I suggest serving it on lightly toasted slider buns with a crunchy slaw on top for an added texture contrast. The combination is simply unbeatable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful jackfruit that replicates pulled pork perfectly
Homemade BBQ sauce that’s tangy and sweet
Quick and easy to prepare, great for gatherings

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a versatile fruit that can mimic the texture of pulled pork, making it an ideal choice for plant-based dishes. When selecting jackfruit, opt for young green jackfruit packed in brine or water. The saltiness of the brine can enhance the overall flavor, so rinsing it thoroughly before cooking helps ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your sliders.

In terms of texture, young jackfruit has a fibrous quality that breaks apart easily, resembling shredded meat once cooked. This ensures that each bite of your sliders has the satisfying, chewy texture you would expect from a traditional pulled pork slider. If you haven’t tried jackfruit before, you might be pleasantly surprised by its adaptability!

Customizing the Flavor

While the recipe calls for a cup of barbecue sauce, you can customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different sauces or adding spices. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating a touch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the jackfruit mixture. Alternatively, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can bring a bright acidity that complements the sweetness of your barbecue sauce.

If you're making this dish for a gathering, consider offering a variety of sauces on the side. That way, your guests can sprinkle on their favorites or even mix them together for a one-of-a-kind taste. This allows everyone to tailor their slider to their taste preference, making the experience more enjoyable.

Storing and Reheating

These BBQ jackfruit sliders can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prep or large gatherings. Once the jackfruit filling has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to maintain moisture.

If you'd like to freeze the jackfruit mixture, portion it into freezer-safe bags and remove excess air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat it on the stove as mentioned above. This time-saving tip ensures that you have a delicious, homemade meal ready whenever a craving strikes!

Ingredients for Sliders with BBQ Jackfruit

Ingredients

1 can young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slider buns
Coleslaw (for topping, optional)

Enjoy your sliders!

Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent. Add the drained jackfruit and break it apart with a fork or spatula to resemble pulled pork.

Cook with BBQ Sauce

Pour in the barbecue sauce, stirring well to coat the jackfruit. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly. Once the jackfruit mixture is ready, spoon it generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, then place the top half of the bun on each slider.

Serve and Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the jackfruit while it cooks. You can adjust the sweetness of the BBQ sauce to your preference, using a honey or maple syrup based sauce for a sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders shine on their own, but you can elevate them further with various toppings. For a crunchy contrast, consider adding a refreshing coleslaw. The creaminess of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ jackfruit, providing a delightful texture and flavor balance.

You can also serve the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. These sides not only complement the sliders but also add a colorful appeal to your table spread. For a barbecue-themed gathering, consider making a small BBQ dipping sauce for guests to enjoy alongside their sliders!

Key Tools for Success

To effectively break apart the jackfruit while cooking, having a sturdy wooden spatula can make the process smoother. A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan is ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic, ensuring they cook evenly without sticking. Plus, this type of cookware distributes heat well, preventing hot spots that can burn the ingredients.

Additionally, using a high-quality barbecue sauce can significantly enhance the flavor of your sliders. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own sauce to control the level of sweetness and spiciness, resulting in a more personalized taste that suits your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to choose young green jackfruit and prepare it similarly by cooking it until tender.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover jackfruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free slider buns and ensure the BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the jackfruit mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you're ready to assemble the sliders.