| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 11g | 1.5g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 6g | 5g | 2.1g |
Why I Love American Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a recipe that brings both comfort and a touch of intrigue. That’s precisely what you get with Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches. Growing up in a family that prized traditional recipes, I wasn’t always open to vegan or plant-based alternatives. But the first time I encountered jackfruit, my culinary world expanded in the best way possible.
Combining Tradition and Innovation
Raised in Boston with Irish grandparents, my flavor palette has always been rooted in hearty, comforting foods. Seafood recipes dominated our dinner table, while Irish stews were a staple during family gatherings. However, it was the ability of jackfruit to absorb flavors and mimic meat so convincingly that led me to fall in love with it. A nod to the rich, smoky barbecues of New England summers, these Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches marry tradition with modern dietary choices.
I first discovered the magic of jackfruit during a food festival showcasing innovative plant-based dishes. Inspired by chefs like Isa Chandra Moskowitz, known for her creative vegan recipes, I was hooked on the idea of this versatile fruit. It’s not just about recreating a meat-like texture; it’s also about embracing the robust, tangy, and spicy flavors that make BBQ such a beloved cuisine.
A Dish That Brings People Together
Cooking isn’t just about feeding the body but also nurturing the soul. My fiancé Laura and I both love hosting gatherings where our family and friends can share great food and even better moments. With our baby boy joining us at the table, it’s become even more important to explore dishes that accommodate diverse dietary needs without compromising on taste.
These Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are incredibly versatile. They pair excellently with a simple coleslaw, balancing the rich tanginess of the BBQ sauce. You could also serve them alongside baked sweet potato fries or a crisp summer salad to complete the meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to stand alone as a main dish or complement other summer classics, making it perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend BBQs.
If you enjoy dishes like pulled pork sandwiches or BBQ chicken, you’ll appreciate how jackfruit offers a similar mouthfeel and flavor complexity without any animal products. The sauce clings to the tender jackfruit, creating layers of flavor enhanced by the smokiness of paprika and the slight heat of cayenne pepper.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches provide a delicious avenue for culinary adventure. They capture the essence of BBQ while offering a friendly nod to dietary inclusivity, making them a new family favorite in our household.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine (20 oz each), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 hamburger buns
- 2 cups coleslaw (optional, for serving)
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
“`
Method
Step One
Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Using your hands or a fork, shred the jackfruit pieces into smaller, stringy pieces to resemble pulled pork.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step Three
Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors from the onion and garlic.
Step Four
Stir in the BBQ sauce, vegetable broth, soy sauce or tamari, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure the jackfruit is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more vegetable broth as needed.
Step Six
Toast the hamburger buns until they are lightly browned.
Step Seven
Assemble the sandwiches by piling the BBQ jackfruit onto the toasted buns. Serve with coleslaw and pickles if desired. Enjoy!
