Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit

Name: Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 8 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw (optional); Pickles (optional); Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit for gatherings and casual BBQs. The first time I tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the jackfruit mimicked the texture of pulled pork. It’s packed with flavor thanks to the spices and tangy sauce, making it a hit even with meat-lovers. Plus, assembling these sliders is super fun and gives everyone the chance to customize their toppings. If you’re looking for a satisfying plant-based option, this is the recipe to try!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:01:29.203Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using jackfruit for a savory dish, I was intrigued. After trying it in these sliders, I couldn’t believe how well it absorbed the barbecue sauce! I recommend using young green jackfruit for its perfect texture – trust me, it falls apart beautifully when cooked.

I enjoy making a homemade slaw to top these sliders, adding a fresh crunch that balances the rich flavors. There's something magical about the combination of sweet, tangy, and savory that keeps me reaching for seconds every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender jackfruit mimics pulled pork perfectly
Bursting with flavor from the barbecue sauce and spices
A fun, customizable dish that's perfect for sharing

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a remarkable plant-based ingredient that offers a meaty texture and absorbs flavorful marinades beautifully. When using canned young green jackfruit, it's essential to choose the variety packed in brine rather than syrup. This prevents you from imparting unwanted sweetness into your sliders. Separated into pieces, jackfruit mimics pulled pork effectively, especially when shredded properly and sautéed to create a slightly crispy edge, enhancing both texture and flavor.

After you've shredded the jackfruit, rinsing and draining it thoroughly helps reduce its briny taste, allowing the spices and barbecue sauce to shine. It's advisable to pick jackfruit pieces that are tender but not overly mushy; this balance will yield that 'pulled' texture you desire. Experimenting with different flavors in the barbecue sauce can elevate the taste; I recommend using a smoky or tangy variant to complement the spices.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cooking the jackfruit in a skillet over medium heat helps achieve the right consistency. Give it time to simmer with the barbecue sauce, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. A lid can be placed on the skillet to trap steam for increased tenderness, but remember to stir frequently to prevent sticking. After about 20-30 minutes, you’ll notice the sauce thickens and clings to the jackfruit, indicating it’s ready.

A common mistake is to rush the cooking process; jackfruit has a fibrous texture that needs proper time to break down. If the mixture appears too dry while cooking, simply add a splash of water or more barbecue sauce. The goal is to achieve a juicy, pull-apart consistency; if you notice it's still too chunky, use the back of a spoon to mash pieces gently as you stir, tailoring it to your preference.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best parts about sliders is the ability to customize them. While traditional toppings like coleslaw and pickles are fantastic, feel free to explore other options like avocado slices, spicy mayo, or even vegan cheese. For a barbecue twist, add crispy onion rings or jalapeño relish to kick the flavor up a notch. The key is balancing the strong flavors of the jackfruit with fresh and creamy elements.

If planning this for a gathering, preparing components in advance is a smart strategy. The pulled jackfruit can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge; it reheats beautifully on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water. Toasting the buns right before serving enhances their texture and flavor, giving a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the jackfruit. This makes for an engaging and delicious experience everyone can enjoy!

Ingredients

To create these delicious sliders, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pulled Jackfruit

1 can young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce

For the Sliders

8 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw (optional)
Pickles (optional)
Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Mix and match the toppings to personalize each slider!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your sliders:

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Shred the jackfruit with your hands or a fork, then add it to the skillet along with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Mixture

Stir well to combine all ingredients, then pour in the barbecue sauce. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and well-coated in sauce.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly, then pile the pulled jackfruit onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, pickles, and jalapeños if desired. Place the top half of the bun on and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious plant-based sliders!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture! Pair the sliders with sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

The pulled jackfruit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days without significant loss of flavor. If you've prepared a larger batch, consider freezing it in individual portions. When stored correctly in freezer-safe bags, it can last up to 3 months. This is particularly convenient if you’d like to whip up quick meals afterward.

When reheating frozen jackfruit, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal results. Reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of your favorite barbecue sauce for moisture, ensuring it regains its tender, juicy quality. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to a rubbery texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you plan to serve a larger crowd or are hosting a party, scaling this recipe is exceedingly simple. For each can of jackfruit, you can easily adapt the seasonings and sauce accordingly; simply double the recipe, and ensure you have enough buns and toppings to match. This dish works well for gatherings of 8-16 people without losing its flavor integrity.

Alternatively, you can create variations for other dietary preferences. For instance, swapping the slider buns for lettuce wraps can accommodate a gluten-free or low-carb diet while still enjoying the delicious flavors. It’s all about making adjustments based on your guests' preferences while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your pulled jackfruit, consider incorporating additional spices like cayenne pepper for heat or a touch of maple syrup for sweetness in your barbecue sauce. Marinating the jackfruit in the barbecue sauce for a few hours prior to cooking can deepen the flavor and create a more robust outcome.

Experimenting with different types of barbecue sauces can also introduce new dimensions to the dish. Consider using a mustard-based sauce for a tangy kick, or a vinegar-based sauce for a refreshing zip. Each variation can subtly transform your sliders, allowing for exciting new discoveries with each cook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pulled jackfruit ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled jackfruit a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

→ Is jackfruit really a good substitute for pulled pork?

Yes, young green jackfruit has a meaty texture that absorbs flavors well, making it a great plant-based alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I add to the sliders?

You can add avocado, sliced radishes, or other favorite veggies for added crunch and flavor!

→ Can I use regular buns instead of slider buns?

Definitely! Just adjust the quantity based on the size of your buns.