These BBQ Jackfruit Sliders are the perfect plant-based alternative to pulled pork, offering a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor with a tender, meaty texture.

Jackfruit soaks up the bold barbecue sauce, making it a delicious filling for soft slider buns. This easy recipe is ideal for summer cookouts, backyard BBQs, or even a quick weeknight meal.

Served with crunchy coleslaw and pickles, these sliders bring a satisfying bite that even meat-eaters will love. Plus, they’re high in fiber, gluten-free (if using GF buns), and packed with flavor.

Pair them with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Based on 6 Sliders)

Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 420mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

100% Vegan & Delicious – A plant-based version of BBQ pulled pork.
Easy to Make – Uses canned jackfruit for convenience.
Great for Cookouts – A crowd-pleaser for both vegans and non-vegans.
Healthy & Fiber-Rich – Jackfruit is packed with nutrients.
Customizable – Add toppings like avocado, coleslaw, or pickled onions.

Ingredients

1- For the Jackfruit BBQ Filling:

2 (14-oz) cans young green jackfruit (in water or brine, not syrup)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup BBQ sauce (vegan)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup vegetable broth or water

2- For Serving:

6 small slider buns (gluten-free if needed)
1 cup vegan coleslaw
½ cup pickles or pickled onions
½ avocado, sliced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Jackfruit

Drain and rinse jackfruit. Pat dry and use your hands or a fork to shred it into strands (discard any tough core pieces).

2. Cook the Jackfruit

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté onions for 2-3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
Add shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper. Stir well.

3. Simmer with BBQ Sauce

Pour in BBQ sauce and vegetable broth. Stir to coat the jackfruit evenly.
Cover and let simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Use a spatula to mash the jackfruit slightly for a more pulled-pork texture.

4. Assemble the Sliders

Lightly toast the slider buns for extra texture.
Spoon the BBQ jackfruit onto the bottom buns.
Top with vegan coleslaw, pickles, and optional avocado slices.
Add the top buns and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

For Crispier Texture – After simmering, spread jackfruit on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Best BBQ Sauce – Choose a smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Store the jackfruit in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
Add Extra Protein – Pair with chickpeas or black beans for added plant-based protein.
Serving Ideas – Great with sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or grilled veggies.