Sliders with BBQ Jackfruit

Name: Sliders with BBQ Jackfruit
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine; 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade); 8 mini burger buns; Coleslaw for topping (optional); Pickles for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Favorites

I absolutely love these sliders with BBQ jackfruit! They are the perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors, making them a delicious alternative to traditional pulled pork. We’ve perfected the method to ensure the jackfruit has that ideal texture, while the homemade BBQ sauce adds a rich, tangy kick. Perfect for parties or a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders will impress even the most loyal carnivores among us. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up in just a short time, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:09:34.296Z

When I first tried BBQ jackfruit, I was amazed at how closely it mimicked the texture of pulled pork. After experimenting with various spices and cooking techniques, I’ve found that slow cooking the jackfruit in a rich BBQ sauce really enhances its flavor and tenderness. Our go-to method involves shredding the jackfruit and allowing it to soak in all those delicious sauces for as long as possible.

One tip I’ve learned is to pat dry the jackfruit after draining it. This allows the BBQ sauce to really cling to the fruit, giving each slider a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you serve these sliders, they will disappear within minutes!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Smoky BBQ flavor that bursts with each bite
Jackfruit's texture mimics pulled pork beautifully
Perfect for vegan-friendly gatherings

      

Understanding Jackfruit as a Meat Substitute

Jackfruit is known for its fibrous texture, making it an ideal substitute for pulled pork in this BBQ slider recipe. When cooked, its ability to absorb flavors is remarkable; this recipe ensures that the jackfruit is soaked in the BBQ sauce long enough to enhance its natural taste. Using young green jackfruit in water or brine provides the best base, ensuring that the final product has that sought-after savory flavor profile.

It's important to handle the jackfruit properly for the best texture. Shredding it correctly can make all the difference in achieving that pulled pork bite. I recommend using your fingers or a fork to pull the fruit apart, ensuring that the shreds maintain some of their structure. This will help in retaining a heartiness that complements the BBQ sauce when you assemble your sliders.

Crafting the Perfect BBQ Sauce

The sauce plays a pivotal role in defining the flavor of your sliders. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade, selecting a BBQ sauce that is well balanced—sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy—will elevate the dish. If you choose to make your own, I recommend a mix of ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and smoked paprika, simmered until slightly thickened to create a robust sauce that clings well to the jackfruit.

If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. This not only adds depth but also complements the sweetness of the jackfruit and balances the overall flavor, creating a delightful experience with every bite of the sliders.

Serving Suggestions and Customization

These BBQ jackfruit sliders can be served in a myriad of ways. While adding coleslaw is a popular choice for crunch and creaminess, you can also experiment with toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of vegan ranch for an extra kick. Serving the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh, tangy salad can create a well-rounded meal that guests will appreciate.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its adaptability. If you're preparing for a crowd, consider doubling the ingredients, as the jackfruit easily scales. Make-ahead options include prepping the jackfruit and storing it in the fridge for up to three days before assembly. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet on medium heat until heated through, then assemble the sliders for a quick serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create mouthwatering BBQ jackfruit sliders!

For the Sliders

1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
8 mini burger buns
Coleslaw for topping (optional)
Pickles for garnish (optional)

Measure out your ingredients and get ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to put together your amazing sliders!

Prepare the Jackfruit

Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit. Remove the core and seeds, and shred the fruit with your fingers or a fork to achieve a pulled texture.

Cook the Jackfruit

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the shredded jackfruit with the BBQ sauce. Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce is well absorbed.

Assemble the Sliders

Spoon the BBQ jackfruit onto the mini buns, top with coleslaw and pickles if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your BBQ jackfruit sliders warm for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For added texture, try toasting the mini buns before assembling the sliders. It gives a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender jackfruit.

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftover BBQ jackfruit, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a great make-ahead dish for meal prep or leftovers. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the BBQ jackfruit. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the jackfruit turns out too tough or chewy, it may not have been cooked long enough to adequately soften. Ensure that you cook it for the full recommended time, stirring occasionally, until it easily shreds with a fork. Patience is key; the longer you allow the jackfruit to absorb the flavors of the sauce, the tastier it will be.

Conversely, if you find your BBQ jackfruit is too watery, this could be due to using a sauce that is low in viscosity. To combat this, let it simmer uncovered on low heat for a few extra minutes. This allows the liquid to reduce and results in a thicker, more concentrated sauce that clings beautifully to your sliders.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with flavors! Different types of BBQ sauces can dramatically change the spin on the dish. Experiment with Kansas City-style sauce for a sweeter profile, or opt for a vinegar-based sauce for a tangier bite. Each variation can change the character of the sliders entirely, giving you options for different occasions.

Additional spices can also switch things up. Adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the jackfruit while it cooks can introduce a warmth and depth that enhances the overall profile. Pair these changes with a unique bun option, like cornbread or pretzel buns, to further customize your BBQ jackfruit sliders!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned jackfruit in syrup?

No, it’s important to use young green jackfruit in water or brine to get the right texture for these sliders.

→ Can I make the BBQ jackfruit ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the jackfruit a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free buns, these sliders can easily be made gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with potato salad, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.