These BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are the ultimate plant-based comfort food, perfect for vegans and meat-lovers alike! Made with tender, smoky jackfruit tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with creamy coleslaw, and served on toasted brioche buns, this easy recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or craving a quick and satisfying dinner, these sandwiches deliver big on flavor. Customize with your favorite toppings, from pickles to avocado, and enjoy a hearty, protein-packed alternative to traditional pulled pork. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings!

Ingredients
For the Coleslaw
- 8 ounces coleslaw mix
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (see notes for vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A few pinches of black pepper
For the BBQ Jackfruit
- 40 ounces jackfruit (about 2 cans, in water, drained)
- 2 teaspoons barbecue rub
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwich Assembly
- 4 brioche buns (see notes for substitutions)
- Vegan butter or regular butter for toasting
- Sliced pickles (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coleslaw
In a medium bowl, combine coleslaw mix, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few pinches of black pepper. Toss well to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. - Prepare the Jackfruit
Drain the jackfruit and remove any seeds. Shred the jackfruit into small pieces using two forks or a hand mixer on low speed. In a large bowl, toss the jackfruit with barbecue rub, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. - Cook the Jackfruit
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned jackfruit and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the barbecue sauce. Cover the skillet and let the jackfruit cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and well-coated with sauce. - Toast the Buns
Heat a small amount of vegan butter or regular butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the brioche buns, cut side down, in the skillet and toast until golden brown and slightly crisp. - Assemble the Sandwiches
Place a generous portion of BBQ jackfruit on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with coleslaw and sliced pickles, if desired. Add the top bun, serve, and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Plant-Based Comfort Food: Packed with smoky, tangy BBQ flavors and creamy coleslaw, these sandwiches are a satisfying meat-free alternative.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings, spices, and buns to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Even non-vegans will love these flavorful, hearty sandwiches.

Tips
- Use the Right Jackfruit: Look for canned jackfruit in water or brine, not syrup, for the best texture and flavor.
- Shred with Ease: A hand mixer on low speed is a quick way to break apart the jackfruit.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the coleslaw and jackfruit a day in advance for even deeper flavor.
- Toast for Texture: Toasting the buns enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess.
Variations and Substitutions
- Buns: Swap brioche buns for ciabatta rolls, whole-grain buns, or gluten-free options.
- Sauce: Use a homemade BBQ sauce for more control over sweetness and spice.
- Coleslaw: Substitute vegan mayonnaise for a fully plant-based dish or try a vinaigrette-based slaw.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Extra Toppings: Add avocado slices, jalapeños, or crispy onions for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the jackfruit and coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover jackfruit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the jackfruit?
Absolutely! Cooked BBQ jackfruit can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free buns and verify that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these sandwiches with crispy sweet potato fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside baked beans or corn on the cob for a BBQ-inspired feast.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a slice of vegan cheese for extra indulgence.
Suggestions
- Perfect for Parties: Serve as sliders on mini buns for an easy party appetizer or snack.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the recipe and store components separately for quick meals throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: Serve with plain coleslaw and milder BBQ sauce to appeal to younger palates.
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
4
servings5
minutes10
minutesIngredients
For the Coleslaw
8 ounces coleslaw mix
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons mayonnaise (see notes for vegan option)
1/2 teaspoon salt
A few pinches of black pepper
For the BBQ Jackfruit
40 ounces jackfruit (about 2 cans, in water, drained)
2 teaspoons barbecue rub
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwich Assembly
4 brioche buns (see notes for substitutions)
Vegan butter or regular butter for toasting
Sliced pickles (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Prepare the Coleslaw
- In a medium bowl, combine coleslaw mix, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few pinches of black pepper. Toss well to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Jackfruit
- Drain the jackfruit and remove any seeds. Shred the jackfruit into small pieces using two forks or a hand mixer on low speed. In a large bowl, toss the jackfruit with barbecue rub, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook the Jackfruit
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned jackfruit and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the barbecue sauce. Cover the skillet and let the jackfruit cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and well-coated with sauce.
- Toast the Buns
- Heat a small amount of vegan butter or regular butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the brioche buns, cut side down, in the skillet and toast until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Place a generous portion of BBQ jackfruit on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with coleslaw and sliced pickles, if desired. Add the top bun, serve, and enjoy!

Leave a Reply