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Nothing says “satisfying summer feast” quite like a BBQ sandwich. If you’ve been craving all the tangy, bold flavors of barbecue but want to skip the meat, this Sweet & Smoky Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich is perfect for you. Tender shredded jackfruit simmers in a zesty sauce, then is piled onto a toasted bun with crunchy toppings. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that proves vegetarian options can be just as irresistible as any traditional barbecue sandwich.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14-ounce) can young jackfruit (in water), drained and shredded
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns or rolls
- Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced red onion, or fresh greens
Instructions
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about five minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, taking care not to let it brown.
Next, add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet, breaking it up with a fork or spatula. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Stir everything so the jackfruit and onions are well coated in spices, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Once the spices are fragrant, pour in your chosen BBQ sauce, stirring until the jackfruit is fully covered and begins to soften. Lower the heat and let the jackfruit mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors deepen and the texture get nice and “pulled”-like.
While the jackfruit simmers, lightly toast your buns or rolls. Assemble each sandwich by spooning a heaping portion of the BBQ jackfruit onto a bun and topping it with whatever crunchy add-ons you love—coleslaw, pickles, or fresh greens all work great.
This Sweet & Smoky Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich is an absolute winner for vegetarians or anyone looking for a tasty meatless option. It’s packed with plant-based protein, and you can easily make swaps if you prefer tofu, mushrooms, or even shredded carrots. Use a gluten-free roll if needed, or amp up the spice with a dash of hot sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry barbecue crowd or cooking a quick weeknight meal, this smoky, saucy sandwich delivers all the fun and flavor you’d expect from a classic BBQ favorite—minus the meat.
