BBQ Jackfruit Pulled “Pork” (Vegan)
A meat-free marvel that perfectly mimics pulled pork with a fraction of the calories.
Key Info:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (with GF BBQ sauce)
Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet or saucepan with lid
- Cutting board and knife
- Potato masher or two forks
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine-mesh sieve
- (Alternative: Slow cooker for hands-off cooking)
Ingredients:
Main Components:
- 2 (20 oz) cans young green jackfruit in water/brine
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (vegan)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slaw
- Vegan coleslaw
- Toasted burger buns
Method:
- Drain and rinse jackfruit thoroughly in cold water. Remove any tough core pieces and seeds.
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
- Add jackfruit, all seasonings, and broth. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 15-20 minutes.
- Using potato masher or forks, shred jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork.
- Add BBQ sauce, stir well, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Optional: For crispy edges, increase heat to high and cook for 5 additional minutes, stirring frequently.
Crucial Tips:
- Always use young green jackfruit (not ripe/sweet)
- Rinse thoroughly to remove brine taste
- Shred while hot for best texture
- Don’t skip the initial simmering step
Storage & Scaling:
- Keeps refrigerated for 5 days
- Freezes well for up to 3 months
- Double recipe for larger gatherings
- Reheat in skillet with splash of water
Common Mistakes:
- Using sweet jackfruit instead of young green
- Adding sauce too early
- Not removing tough core pieces
- Insufficient shredding
Variations:
- Korean BBQ style: Add gochujang and sesame oil
- Smoky: Add liquid smoke and extra smoked paprika
- Spicy: Include diced jalapeños and cayenne
- Sweet & tangy: Mix in pineapple chunks
This recipe transforms humble jackfruit into a convincing meat alternative that’ll satisfy even dedicated carnivores. The key is proper preparation and patience during the cooking process.
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