BBQ Jackfruit Sliders (Vegan)

Smoky, tender jackfruit tossed in rich BBQ sauce, topped with caramelized grilled pineapple and creamy slaw, these BBQ Jackfruit Sliders are a mouthwatering plant-based alternative to pulled pork. Perfect for summer cookouts, parties, or weeknight meals, these sliders are packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 100% Plant-Based – A delicious vegan alternative to traditional BBQ sliders.
• Smoky & Sweet – BBQ jackfruit pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple and slaw.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Gatherings – A crowd-pleasing dish for BBQs and picnics.
• Healthy & Filling – Jackfruit provides a great texture with fewer calories than meat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Jackfruit:

• 2 cans (14 oz each) young green jackfruit in water, drained and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Sliders:

• 6 slider buns
• 6 slices grilled pineapple
• Fresh microgreens (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Jackfruit – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly browned.
2. Add BBQ Sauce – Pour in BBQ sauce, stir well, and simmer for 10 minutes until tender. Use a fork to pull apart the jackfruit for a shredded texture.
3. Make the Slaw – In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
4. Grill the Pineapple – Heat a grill or pan over medium heat. Grill pineapple slices for 2 minutes per side until caramelized.
5. Assemble the Sliders – Place a grilled pineapple slice on the bottom half of each slider bun. Add a scoop of BBQ jackfruit, then top with slaw. Cover with the top bun.
6. Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with microgreens if desired, and serve warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 sliders
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños to the slaw or mix sriracha into the BBQ sauce.
• Hawaiian Style – Use Hawaiian sweet rolls for extra flavor.
• Extra Smoky Flavor – Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the jackfruit while cooking.
• Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts on top.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free buns or serve the jackfruit over a salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftover jackfruit and slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm the jackfruit in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
• Freezing – Freeze cooked jackfruit in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What does jackfruit taste like?

Young green jackfruit has a mild taste and absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for BBQ-style dishes.

Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh jackfruit requires more preparation, including removing seeds and boiling to soften.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

A smoky or sweet BBQ sauce works best. Choose a vegan-friendly option without honey if needed.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Assemble just before serving, or lightly toast the buns to add a barrier between the sauce and bread.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the jackfruit and slaw ahead, then reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Are there other toppings I can add?

Yes! Avocado slices, pickled onions, or crispy fried onions make great additions.

What kind of buns work best for sliders?

Soft slider buns, brioche buns, or Hawaiian rolls work well.

Can I bake the jackfruit instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes for a slightly firmer texture.

How do I get the best grilled pineapple flavor?

Use a hot grill and cook each side until caramelized grill marks appear.

Can I use coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage and carrots?

Yes! A pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a great time-saving option.

Conclusion

These BBQ Jackfruit Sliders are a smoky, sweet, and satisfying plant-based alternative that even meat lovers will enjoy. Perfectly paired with grilled pineapple and creamy slaw, they make a delicious and easy addition to any BBQ or gathering. Try them for your next cookout and enjoy a flavorful, meat-free meal!