Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Name: Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I recently discovered how versatile jackfruit can be and decided to transform it into a delicious BBQ slider. The first bite of these easy BBQ jackfruit sliders took me by surprise, with their delightful flavor and texture. It’s truly a satisfying dish that captures the essence of classic BBQ, all while remaining plant-based. I love serving these at gatherings, as they're not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you're vegan or just looking to switch things up, these sliders will win you over.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:34:14.602Z

When I first experimented with jackfruit, I was amazed by how closely it mimics the texture of pulled pork. After marinating it in a rich BBQ sauce and letting it cook down, the flavors intensified beautifully. I remember serving these sliders at a family barbecue, and everyone was blown away by how delicious and satisfying they were.

To achieve that ideal balance of sweetness and smokiness, I recommend using a high-quality BBQ sauce and adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. It really takes these sliders to the next level, and they're perfect piled high with coleslaw.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and smoky BBQ flavor that satisfies cravings
Tender jackfruit mimicking pulled pork perfectly
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Jackfruit

Jackfruit is an excellent meat substitute thanks to its unique texture, which closely resembles pulled pork when cooked and shredded. Young green jackfruit, specifically, has a subtle flavor that absorbs sauces and seasonings remarkably well. When sautéed with onions and drenched in BBQ sauce, it transforms into a hearty filling that satisfies both texture and taste cravings for a traditional BBQ experience.

To ensure the best results, opt for young green jackfruit packed in water or brine rather than syrup. The syrup will add unwanted sweetness to your dish. After rinsing and draining, you'll want to shred the jackfruit into smaller pieces; this increases the surface area, allowing it to soak up more flavor during cooking.

Making the Perfect BBQ Sauce

The choice of BBQ sauce can significantly impact the flavor profile of your sliders. Whether you opt for a classic smoky sauce, a tart vinegar-based sauce, or a spicy variant, ensure that the sauce complements the jackfruit without overwhelming it. If you prefer a touch of heat, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix during the simmering stage.

Additionally, feel free to get creative by mixing store-bought sauces or even making your own. Combining different sauces can lead to a unique flavor that will be the highlight of your sliders. Just remember to taste as you go, adjusting the sweetness and acidity to suit your palate.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These BBQ jackfruit sliders are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Classic accompaniments like baked beans or potato salad add extra heartiness. For something lighter, a fresh green salad pairs well, cutting through the richness of the sliders. Don't forget some pickles on the side; their acidity offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

If you want to elevate your sliders for a gathering, consider making mini versions using slider buns. This allows for easy grabbing and sharing. You can also set up a toppings bar with ingredients like jalapeños, avocado slices, or different types of coleslaw, inviting guests to customize their own sliders.

Ingredients for Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

For the Sliders

2 cans young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw for topping (optional)

These ingredients will ensure you have delicious sliders that are perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the jackfruit and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add BBQ Sauce

Stir in the BBQ sauce and mix well to coat the jackfruit. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Spoon the BBQ jackfruit mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, if desired, and place the top half of the bun over the filling.

Serve

Serve the sliders warm and enjoy them with your favorite sides!

Enjoy your delicious BBQ jackfruit sliders!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, feel free to add spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder to the jackfruit while it simmers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prepare these sliders in advance, the jackfruit filling can be made a day ahead. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of extra BBQ sauce if it seems dry.

Leftover sliders can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. This method keeps the buns from becoming too soggy while ensuring the filling is hot and ready to enjoy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when cooking with jackfruit is that it can sometimes turn out too watery if not drained properly. To mitigate this, ensure you press the jackfruit with a clean cloth after rinsing to remove excess moisture. Additionally, simmering the jackfruit uncovered will help evaporate any excess liquid.

If your BBQ jackfruit feels too dry or lacks flavor, don't hesitate to adjust the seasonings or add more BBQ sauce during cooking. The key is to let the jackfruit absorb all those delicious flavors, so keep it simmering low and covered until you've achieved the desired taste and consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned jackfruit in syrup?

It's best to use young green jackfruit in brine, as the syrup will add unnecessary sweetness.

→ How do I store leftover sliders?

Store leftover jackfruit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze the BBQ jackfruit?

Yes, you can freeze the jackfruit mixture. Just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What are some good sides to serve with these sliders?

Coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries pair wonderfully with BBQ sliders.