Ever thought a plant-based option could fill your BBQ sandwich craving? The vegan BBQ jackfruit is gaining fans. It’s not just tasty; it shows you don’t need meat for a great « pulled » sandwich. Let’s dive into making a delicious BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich that’s great for any time!
Key Takeaways
- This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
- You can prepare these BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches in just 50 minutes.
- A single can holds 20 ounces of jackfruit, a versatile base for this dish.
- The average rating score for this recipe is 4.82 out of 5 based on 44 votes.
- Cooked jackfruit can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Optional toppings like avocado and pickles allow customization to suit your taste.
Introduction to BBQ Jackfruit
BBQ Jackfruit is a trendy, plant-based choice that’s gaining popularity. It’s known for its ability to mimic pulled pork’s texture and offer a smoky taste. Many have adopted vegan jackfruit for its tasty and eco-friendly qualities, leading to new recipes.
Jackfruit in brine develops a unique flavor when cooked. This flavor works well with spices and sauces, making it great for many dishes. It’s perfect for BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches and zesty BBQ jackfruit tacos, pleasing both vegans and meat-lovers.
Using jackfruit in your cooking can open up a world of possibilities. It’s not just for vegans; it’s for anyone who loves a good flavor. Plus, it’s a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
What is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that grows in South and Southeast Asia. It can grow up to 100 pounds, making it the largest fruit from a tree. Its fibrous texture makes it a great meat substitute, especially in BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches.
Young jackfruit, found in canned form, is great for savory dishes. It tastes like pulled pork. Ripe jackfruit, on the other hand, is sweet and perfect for desserts or snacks.
For BBQ Jackfruit, I use canned jackfruit for ease. It’s a reliable choice for flavorful dishes. Young jackfruit adds a tropical twist to meals, whether in sandwiches or tacos. Jackfruit is perfect for those exploring new foods or looking for a tasty, plant-based option.
Benefits of Using Jackfruit in Recipes
Adding jackfruit to my cooking has shown me its many benefits. It’s low in calories, with about 20 per 2.65-ounce serving. This makes it great for tasty meals without too many calories. Plus, it has 3 grams of fiber, helping with digestion.
Jackfruit is also packed with potassium, which is good for the heart. It has antioxidants that fight off harmful free radicals and help repair DNA. This boosts my immune system. And, it’s a meat substitute with no cholesterol or saturated fat, fitting my healthy lifestyle.
Jackfruit has a unique taste that works well in many vegan dishes, like tacos and stews. The young, unripe jackfruit is especially good as a meat substitute. It’s easy to find in cans or the fridge. This fruit’s popularity shows more people are choosing plant-based options, like me.
Jackfruit is full of vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C, magnesium, iron, and calcium. It’s good for the heart and is affordable. Using jackfruit in my recipes means I get to enjoy healthy, tasty meals that suit many diets.
The Best BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
To make the perfect BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich, you need the right ingredients and tools. This makes cooking both tasty and easy.
Ingredients for the BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Here are the key ingredients for a great BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned young jackfruit (in brine) | 2 (20-ounce) cans |
| Medium red onion | 1 medium |
| Water | 1/2 cup + 1/3 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1/2 cup + 2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Dark brown sugar | 3 1/2 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt | 2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Shredded red cabbage | 2 cups |
| Chopped fresh cilantro | 1/3 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Scallions | 2 large, thinly sliced |
| Spicy brown mustard | 3 teaspoons |
| Canola oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves | 3 medium, finely chopped |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ketchup | 2/3 cup |
| Chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce | 1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon adobo sauce |
| Potato sandwich rolls | 4, split and toasted |
| Dill pickle chips | For serving |
Essential Tools Needed
Having the right tools makes cooking a BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich easier. Here are my top picks:
| Kitchen Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet | Sautéing ingredients |
| Food processor or forks | Shredding jackfruit |
| Measuring cups | Measuring ingredients accurately |
| Spatula | Stirring and serving |
| Mixing bowl | Preparing the slaw |
| Sharp knife | Slicing ingredients |
How to Prepare Jackfruit
Preparing jackfruit is easy. First, I rinse and drain the canned jackfruit to get rid of extra salt. This makes sure my dish tastes great without being too salty. After draining, I shred the jackfruit by hand or with a food processor. Getting a pulled texture is key, as shredded jackfruit soaks up BBQ sauce better.
Now, the shredded jackfruit is ready to cook. I cook it with spices for 1-2 minutes. Then, I add BBQ sauce and let it cook for 3-4 more minutes. This simple step turns the jackfruit into a tasty base for my BBQ jackfruit sandwich, making it a great meat substitute.
| Preparation Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Rinse and Drain | Remove excess sodium from canned jackfruit. |
| Shred Jackfruit | Use hands or a food processor to achieve a pulled texture. |
| Cook with Spices | Cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor. |
| Add BBQ Sauce | Cook an additional 3-4 minutes for a complete flavor infusion. |
Making the BBQ Sauce
A great BBQ sauce is key to making jackfruit taste amazing. Making your own BBQ sauce lets you control what goes into it. It’s perfect for those who want vegan options.
Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe
Start with ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard for your BBQ sauce. Add minced garlic and spices like smoked paprika and cumin. Blend until it’s smooth and thick.
You’ll need about 1 to 2 cups of BBQ sauce for your jackfruit. This amount gives it a perfect saucy finish. The homemade sauce balances sweetness and smokiness, enhancing the jackfruit’s texture.
With a homemade BBQ sauce, you can make a vegan version that tastes just right. Try different spices to find the perfect flavor for your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich. It will be even more delicious and tailored to your taste.
Cooking Instructions for BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Cooking jackfruit is easy. Start by sautéing sliced onions in olive oil. Cook them until they’re translucent, adding flavor to your dish.
Then, add shredded jackfruit to the pan. Let it soak up all the flavors.
Now, it’s time for spices. Mix in garlic, paprika, brown sugar, and more. These spices make the jackfruit taste amazing. Add ¼ cup of BBQ sauce to coat the jackfruit evenly.
Cover the pan and simmer for 20 minutes. This makes the jackfruit tender and flavorful.
After cooking, build your BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich. Serve the jackfruit with crunchy slaw on toasted buns. This mix of flavors and textures is perfect for BBQs.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green/unripe jackfruit (canned) | 14 oz |
| Olive or avocado oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion, chopped | ⅓ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Paprika | 1 Tablespoon |
| Brown sugar | ½ Tablespoon |
| Chili powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Sea salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | Pinch |
| BBQ sauce | ¼ cup |
Serving Suggestions
When you serve BBQ jackfruit, the right sides can make it even better. Pairing jackfruit sandwiches with various dishes can enhance their smoky and tangy flavors. Choosing the right sides can also make your meal more enjoyable and satisfy different tastes.
Pairing with Sides
Choosing the right sides is key. Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory mix, while coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch. A light salad with citrus can add a bright contrast, making the sandwich feel more indulgent.
Adding toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or sliced avocado brings a fresh and crunchy element. This makes each bite more enjoyable. For a party, consider serving jackfruit sandwiches with vegan nachos or vegetable skewers. These options please many tastes and create a fun atmosphere. Serving BBQ jackfruit becomes a memorable meal for everyone.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potato Fries | Crispy and savory, perfect for balancing the rich flavors of BBQ jackfruit. |
| Coleslaw | A crunchy, creamy side that adds freshness and contrasts the warmth of the sandwich. |
| Light Salad | Featuring citrus dressing to refresh the palate between bites of the rich sandwich. |
| Vegan Nachos | Loaded with toppings, a great addition for party-style dining. |
| Vegetable Skewers | Colorful, healthy, and easy to prepare for a festive atmosphere. |
Variations of BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
BBQ Jackfruit sandwiches are super flexible. I love trying out different BBQ Jackfruit variations to match my taste. Adding chipotle peppers can add a spicy twist. Chickpeas or black beans can also make the sandwich more interesting with their unique texture and protein.
Alternative Fillings
Jackfruit is great for making delicious tacos too. I top it with a refreshing slaw and a squeeze of lime juice. This shows how BBQ jackfruit can be enjoyed in many ways.
Here are some tasty toppings for jackfruit sandwiches:
| Filling/Topping | Description |
|---|---|
| Chipotle Peppers | Adds a spicy, smoky flavor. |
| Chickpeas | Provides additional protein and a nutty taste. |
| Black Beans | Enhances texture and fiber content. |
| Cabbage Slaw | Offers crunch and freshness. |
| Lime Juice | Elevates flavor with a tangy lift. |
Storing Leftover BBQ Jackfruit
Storing jackfruit leftovers can be a big help. I keep my leftover BBQ jackfruit in a sealed container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to 4 days, ideal for meal prep with jackfruit. Portioning them out makes it easy to grab a meal on the go.
When reheating, add a bit of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist. The flavors get even better after marinating in the fridge. This makes the leftovers just as tasty the next day.
| Item | Storage Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover BBQ Jackfruit | 3-4 days | Airtight container in fridge |
| Grilled Pineapple | 1-2 days | Separate airtight container |
| Quick-Pickled Cabbage Slaw | 5-7 days | Separate airtight container |
Properly storing jackfruit and its sides like grilled pineapple and slaw helps me make quick, tasty meals. Whether in sandwiches or as a main dish, these tips make meal prep with jackfruit easy and enjoyable.
Conclusion
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are not just tasty; they’re a great way to eat plant-based. Jackfruit’s unique texture and flavor-absorbing ability make it a great meat substitute. The recipe I shared lets me make a delicious BBQ jackfruit dish to share with loved ones.
Enjoying BBQ jackfruit has many health benefits, like fiber and antioxidants. It’s quick to make, with only 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking. Jackfruit’s versatility, especially with fresh slaw and the right bread, makes it a standout dish.
My last thoughts on jackfruit recipes are that they’re not just tasty but also healthy. They let me enjoy bold flavors without meat, which is better for the planet. I’m excited to try more jackfruit recipes and see how they grow on me!