In the vibrant world of plant-based cuisine, few ingredients have sparked as much excitement as jackfruit. With its naturally fibrous texture and subtle flavor, this tropical fruit has become a superstar for recreating classic comfort foods in a wholesome, meat-free way. Enter the savory BBQ pulled jackfruit slider-a delightful handheld masterpiece that marries smoky, tangy barbecue goodness with tender, pulled-jackfruit perfection. Paired with a refreshing, creamy coleslaw, these sliders deliver a satisfying crunch and cool contrast that elevate each bite. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious foodie, or simply someone seeking a flavorful twist on a barbecue favorite, these sliders promise a mouthwatering journey that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Savory BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with Creamy Coleslaw

Savory BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders with creamy coleslaw unlock a mouthwatering world of plant-based comfort food that’s as satisfying as it is indeed vibrant. Inspired by conventional barbecue’s bold flavors but reinvented with tender, shredded young jackfruit, this dish invites you to savor smoky, tangy layers balanced perfectly by a luscious, crisp coleslaw.Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply curious about innovative flavors, mastering this recipe will elevate your slider game to unforgettable heights.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Yield

Makes 12 sliders

Difficulty Level

Medium – perfect for cooks ready to experiment with plant-based BBQ magic

Ingredients

• • For the BBQ Pulled Jackfruit:
    • 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce (choose a vegan variety)
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
    • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
    • Salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • for the Creamy Coleslaw:
    • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
    • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
    • 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
    • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
    • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
    • 1 tbsp agave syrup or maple syrup
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Sliders:
    • 12 mini slider buns, toasted
    • Pickle slices (optional garnish)
    • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Savory BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with Creamy Coleslaw: Step-by-Step Instructions

• • 1. Prepare the jackfruit: Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit thoroughly to remove brine flavor. Using your hands or two forks, gently shred the jackfruit into strands, mimicking the texture of pulled meat. Remove any hard seeds from the pieces.
    2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid browning.
    3. Add and season jackfruit: Stir in the shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing jackfruit to lightly brown and absorb the spices.
    4. Simmer in BBQ sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the jackfruit mixture. Stir to coat evenly, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
    5. Make the creamy coleslaw: In a large bowl, combine green and red cabbage with shredded carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, agave syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and tangy.
    6. Toss and chill coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the shredded veggies and toss thoroughly. Refrigerate at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors harmonize and the texture crisp up.
    7. Toast slider buns: Lightly toast the slider buns in a dry skillet or oven until golden and warm, enhancing flavor and texture.
    8. Assemble sliders: Layer the pulled jackfruit generously on each bun base, then add a heaping spoonful of creamy coleslaw.Garnish with a thin pickle slice and fresh parsley or cilantro for brightness and pop of color.
    9. Serve immediately: Enjoy these sliders warm with your favorite sides and extra BBQ sauce on the side for drizzling.

Chef’s Notes and Tips for success

• • • Shredding jackfruit: Use canned young green jackfruit labeled “in water or brine,” not ripe or syrup-packed varieties. Proper shredding is key to mimicking pulled meat texture; patience here rewards you with a tender, fibrous bite.
    • Balancing flavors: If your barbecue sauce is too sweet, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce to deepen complexity. Feel free to adjust smoky spices for personal taste.
    • Make-ahead tip: BBQ pulled jackfruit can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight in the fridge.
    • Coleslaw variations: for extra crunch, add finely chopped celery or green onions. Swap regular vegan mayo for coconut yogurt for a tangier slaw.
    • Slider bun alternatives: Sweet potato buns, pretzel sliders, or gluten-free buns all make fabulous swaps, enhancing the flavor profile or accommodating dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Every Bite

Serve these sensational sliders with a side of crispy seasoned sweet potato fries or smoky grilled corn on the cob. A chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or iced tea complements the tangy BBQ and creamy slaw’s balance perfectly. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds atop the coleslaw for added texture and visual appeal.

Nutrition Details (per slider)

Calories	Protein	Carbohydrates	Fat
180 kcal	3g	28g	5g

For those interested in exploring more plant-based BBQ recipes, check out our Ultimate Vegan Smoked Ribs Guide. For additional insights on the nutritional benefits of jackfruit, visit Healthline’s Jackfruit Benefits Article.

Q&A

Q&A: Savory BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with Creamy Coleslaw

Q1: What makes jackfruit a great substitute for traditional pulled meats in sliders?
A1: jackfruit’s unique texture-stringy and tender when cooked-mimics the mouthfeel of pulled meats beautifully. Plus, its mild flavor acts like a blank canvas, soaking up smoky, tangy BBQ sauces wonderfully. It’s also plant-based and packed with dietary fiber, making it a nutritious and delicious alternative.

Q2: How do you prepare jackfruit for the best pulled texture?
A2: Start by draining and rinsing canned young green jackfruit, then shred it gently with your hands or forks to create those signature pulled fibers. Slow-cook it with smoky BBQ sauce to let the fruit absorb all the savory goodness, softening it further for that perfect bite.

Q3: What type of BBQ sauce pairs best with pulled jackfruit sliders?
A3: A tangy, slightly sweet BBQ sauce with a hint of smokiness complements jackfruit nicely. Look for sauces with ingredients like tomato, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and smoked paprika. Avoid anything overly spicy if you want the natural jackfruit flavors to shine through.

Q4: Can the creamy coleslaw be made vegan?
A4: Absolutely! Swap traditional mayo for vegan mayonnaise or a cashew cream-based dressing. Add apple cider vinegar,a touch of maple syrup,and a pinch of celery seed for that classic tangy-sweet coleslaw vibe without dairy.

Q5: What bread works best for these sliders?
A5: Soft, slightly sweet slider buns like brioche or potato rolls enhance the savory-sweet flavor profile without overpowering the BBQ jackfruit. For a healthier twist, whole grain or gluten-free slider buns also work well.

Q6: Are there any tips for making the sliders ahead of time?
A6: Yes! Prepare the pulled jackfruit in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the coleslaw separate until serving to maintain its creamy crunch. When ready, reheat the jackfruit gently on the stove, assemble, and enjoy fresh sliders!

Q7: How can you customize these sliders for different flavor profiles?
A7: experiment with adding chipotle powder for a smoky kick, or a splash of pineapple juice in the BBQ sauce for tropical sweetness. Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions in the coleslaw to brighten each bite.

Q8: What sides pair well with BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders?
A8: Classic sides like baked sweet potato fries, grilled corn on the cob, or a crisp cucumber salad complement these sliders beautifully. They balance the rich BBQ flavors with fresh, light textures and colors.

Q9: Is jackfruit suitable for those on a gluten-free or allergen-conscious diet?
A9: Yes! Jackfruit is naturally gluten-free and free from common allergens, making it a safe choice for many dietary needs. Just be sure to verify that your BBQ sauce and buns also meet your specific dietary requirements.

Q10: Why should we consider incorporating more plant-based meals like these sliders into our diet?
A10: Eating plant-based is great for your health, the environment, and culinary creativity. Dishes like BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders offer satisfying flavors and textures without relying on animal products. They inspire us to explore diverse ingredients and enjoy nourishing meals in a more enduring way.

In Summary

In the world of plant-based cooking, these Savory BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sliders with Creamy Coleslaw stand out as a vibrant party of flavor and texture. They prove that you don’t need meat to enjoy the smoky, tangy, and satisfying experience of a true BBQ slider. Whether you’re a vegan veteran or simply curious about new culinary adventures, this recipe invites you to savor the unexpected magic of jackfruit – shredded, sauced, and nestled into a soft bun, balanced perfectly by a crisp, creamy coleslaw that adds a refreshing contrast. so next time you’re craving that classic BBQ comfort, give these sliders a try and discover a deliciously innovative twist that’s as wholesome as it is indulgent.