Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Name: Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Slider buns; Pickles (optional, for serving)

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I recently discovered how delightful jackfruit can be when it’s cooked to perfection and smothered in barbecue sauce. These Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders have become a go-to for quick meals, satisfying my cravings for something savory yet wholesome. I love how the jackfruit mimics pulled pork in texture, making it perfect for slider sandwiches. Each bite bursts with flavor while being incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:09:34.650Z

When I first tried these sliders, I was amazed at how well jackfruit absorbs flavors, especially my homemade BBQ sauce. After experimenting with various cooking methods, I found that simmering the jackfruit allows its natural sweetness to shine while becoming irresistibly tender. Using a mix of spices in the sauce adds a depth that truly elevates the dish.

I've found that serving these sliders with a refreshing coleslaw on the side complements the smoky flavors beautifully. It's a light and crispy contrast that balances the richness of the jackfruit. These sliders are perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Savory jackfruit that mimics pulled pork perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare for last-minute meals
A crowd-pleaser for vegans and meat-eaters alike

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is an incredibly versatile ingredient that offers a unique texture similar to pulled pork. When using young green jackfruit, it's essential to choose the canned varieties in brine, as they provide the best texture and flavor for savory dishes. Rinsing and draining the jackfruit well helps to eliminate any residual briny taste, allowing the grill or BBQ seasoning to shine through, ultimately enhancing the final dish.

When prepared correctly, jackfruit absorbs flavors beautifully, making the choice of BBQ sauce a critical aspect of this recipe. I recommend any flavorful sauce that has a nice balance of sweetness and tanginess, which can complement the natural earthiness of the jackfruit. Experimenting with different sauces can yield exciting variations that can suit your taste preferences or impress your guests.

Perfecting Your Sauté

Sautéing the jackfruit with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika not only infuses it with bold flavors but also helps to enhance its texture. When sautéing, aim for a medium heat and stir occasionally, ensuring the jackfruit reaches a light golden color, about 5 minutes. This initial step caramelizes the spices, creating a depth of flavor that makes each bite of your sliders mouthwatering.

If you find the jackfruit too chunky after sautéing, don’t hesitate to use a fork to further shred it during the simmering stage. This will help the jackfruit soak up more of the BBQ sauce and better mimic the pulled texture of traditional sliders, leading to a more satisfying bite.

Tips for Assembly and Serving

When assembling the sliders, consider lightly toasting the slider buns to add a delightful crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy. Toasting not only provides stability for the jackfruit filling but also enhances the overall enjoyment of each bite. A quick toast in a skillet or under a broiler for just 1-2 minutes can make a significant difference.

If you'd like to explore variations, consider adding toppings like coleslaw or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor and texture. These additions can create a delightful contrast against the savory, BBQ-infused jackfruit, making your sliders even more delicious. Keep in mind, it’s always fun to get creative with toppings based on your personal preferences!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious sliders.

Sliders Ingredients

1 can of young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Slider buns
Pickles (optional, for serving)

These sliders pair well with your favorite sides or dips!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your sliders.

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained and rinsed jackfruit, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly golden.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix well. Let it simmer on low heat for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to absorb the flavors and break down. Use a fork to shred the jackfruit further if necessary.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the jackfruit mixture is ready, spoon it onto slider buns. Top with pickles if you desire, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your tasty BBQ Jackfruit Sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some diced onions or jalapeños to the jackfruit while it cooks. Also, feel free to customize the BBQ sauce with your preferred spices or hot sauce for a kick!

Make-Ahead Options

These BBQ jackfruit sliders are perfect for meal prep, as the jackfruit mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the taste the second time around.

For longer storage, you can freeze the jackfruit mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weekdays when you want a quick yet satisfying meal.

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps instead. The use of lettuce not only cuts down on carbs but also adds a fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of the BBQ jackfruit. Similarly, for a lower-carb option, you could serve the jackfruit mixture over a bed of rice or quinoa instead of in buns.

For those with soy allergies, check the label of your BBQ sauce, as some may contain soy sauce. Opting for a homemade version or a soy-free BBQ sauce is easy and can elevate the flavor profile of your sliders. Just ensure that the sauce you choose matches your taste preferences!

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair well with classic side dishes like sweet potato fries or a crisp salad. The sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors of the jackfruit, while a refreshing salad helps balance the richness of the sauce. You could even whip up a tangy vinaigrette to lighten the meal's overall experience.

To elevate your BBQ sliders for a gathering, create a slider bar! Offer different toppings such as sliced avocado, jalapeños, and various pickles. Encouraging guests to customize their sliders allows for interactive dining and can cater to a variety of tastes. This fun approach is especially great for gatherings, ensuring that everyone has something they’ll enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned jackfruit in syrup?

No, it's best to use young green jackfruit in brine or water for savory dishes. Jackfruit in syrup is too sweet for BBQ sliders.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the jackfruit mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free slider buns.

→ Can I freeze the jackfruit mixture?

Absolutely! The jackfruit mixture freezes well. Just thaw and reheat before serving.