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Flavorful Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sliders Easy Recipe with Tangy Slaw

vegan bbq jackfruit sliders - featured image

These vegan BBQ jackfruit sliders offer a smoky, sweet, and tangy plant-based alternative to pulled pork sandwiches, topped with a crisp tangy slaw for a perfect balance of flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are ideal for casual gatherings and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine (about 20 oz / 565 g total), drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegan BBQ sauce
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about 150 g / 5.3 oz)
  • 1 cup shredded carrot (about 120 g / 4.2 oz)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 tablespoon vegan mayonnaise or plain plant-based yogurt
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Slider buns or small soft rolls (use gluten-free if needed)
  • Pickles or sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit well. Using your fingers or two forks, shred the jackfruit into pieces, pulling apart any large chunks to mimic pulled pork texture (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to lightly caramelize the edges.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of vegan BBQ sauce. Lower heat to medium-low and mix well to coat the jackfruit. Simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the jackfruit.
  5. While the jackfruit simmers, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, vegan mayo, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour dressing over veggies and toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
  6. Optional: Split slider buns and toast lightly on a dry skillet or in the oven for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
  7. Assemble sliders by spooning a generous portion of BBQ jackfruit onto each bun bottom. Top with a heap of tangy slaw and add pickles or jalapeños if desired. Cap with the bun top and serve immediately.

Notes

If jackfruit seems dry during cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep it moist. Don’t rush the simmering step; it’s key for flavor development and texture. For gluten-free, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. You can add chipotle powder or hot sauce for a spicy kick. Toast buns for added texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan BBQ sliders, jackfruit recipe, plant-based sliders, vegan pulled pork, BBQ jackfruit, tangy slaw, vegan sandwiches, gluten-free sliders