Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit

Name: Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 8 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw mix; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: World Flavors

I love making sliders with pulled jackfruit because they bring such a satisfying, meaty texture while being entirely plant-based. The jackfruit absorbs all the spices and flavors beautifully, making it a hit for both vegans and meat-lovers alike. When served in soft, fluffy buns, these sliders become irresistible, especially at get-togethers. I always pair them with a tangy slaw to add a crunch that complements the soft jackfruit. It's one of those recipes that surprises everyone with its depth of flavor and fun presentation.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:31:16.044Z

When I first tried making pulled jackfruit, I was curious if it could really mimic the texture of pulled pork. After experimenting with several seasonings, I discovered that a mix of smoked paprika and liquid smoke brings out an incredibly deep flavor profile. The key is to let the jackfruit simmer until it's perfectly tender and can be shredded easily.

I've hosted several brunches where I served these sliders, and they've always been a crowd favorite. As a tip, I like to add a bit of barbecue sauce towards the end of cooking to give it a sticky, delicious glaze. It makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
The pulled jackfruit has an irresistible texture that's reminiscent of traditional pulled meat.
Flavorful spices create a savory depth that satisfies every palate.
Perfect for casual gatherings or a fun family dinner.

Understanding Jackfruit

Young green jackfruit is a remarkable ingredient often praised for its versatility in plant-based cooking. Its unique fibrous texture mimics pulled meat when cooked correctly, absorbing flavors from spices and sauces beautifully. While rinsing and draining the jackfruit is crucial, it's equally important to choose young green jackfruit packed in brine for the best results, as it benefits from a good soak in seasonings, enhancing its taste during cooking.

When preparing jackfruit, be mindful of the difference between young green jackfruit and ripe jackfruit. The young variety has a neutral taste and firmer texture, making it ideal for savory dishes. In contrast, ripe jackfruit is sweeter and best used in desserts. Properly shredding the jackfruit is key to creating that authentic pulled meat texture; I find using two forks works best for achieving the desired consistency.

Perfecting the Barbecue Flavor

The choice of barbecue sauce is paramount in achieving a deep, satisfying flavor profile for your pulled jackfruit sliders. Opt for a sauce that balances sweetness and tang, as this will complement the spices and the earthiness of the jackfruit. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own sauce to control the sweetness and spice levels—mixing tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a splash of liquid smoke creates a delicious homemade alternative.

While simmering the jackfruit, ensure you cover the skillet to retain moisture, which enhances flavor absorption. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the spices disperse evenly. The texture should be tender but not mushy; you want it to hold together when shredded. If the mixture seems too dry after cooking, add a touch more barbecue sauce or a bit of vegetable broth to maintain the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started!

For the Pulled Jackfruit

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

For the Sliders

8 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw mix
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Ensure you have everything prepped for an easier cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious sliders!

Prepare the Jackfruit

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the drained jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Simmer the Mixture

Pour in 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce and stir well. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the jackfruit is tender and can be shredded easily.

Prepare the Slaw

In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar. Toss until thoroughly mixed and set aside.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the jackfruit is ready, shred it with two forks until it resembles pulled meat. Mix in the remaining barbecue sauce to coat the jackfruit. Serve the pulled jackfruit on slider buns, topped with coleslaw and cilantro.

Enjoy your sliders with a side of your favorite chips or a light salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices in the jackfruit to match your personal taste. You can also use gluten-free buns to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your sliders, consider adding extra toppings such as pickled jalapeños, avocado slices, or a tangy vegan ranch dressing. These additions create layers of flavor and texture, making the sliders even more appealing. If you're hosting a larger gathering, setting up a slider bar with various toppings can create a fun interactive experience for your guests.

For a complete meal, pair the sliders with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad drizzled with a vinaigrette. A side of baked beans can also complement the smoky flavors of the pulled jackfruit, rounding out the dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepared pulled jackfruit stores beautifully in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish. Simply keep it in an airtight container for up to four days. When ready to serve, just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce if necessary to maintain moisture.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, consider freezing the pulled jackfruit. Once cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Is jackfruit a good substitute for meat?

Yes, young green jackfruit has a texture similar to shredded meat, making it an excellent substitute in many recipes.

→ How long can I store leftover pulled jackfruit?

You can store leftover pulled jackfruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the pulled jackfruit?

Absolutely! Pulled jackfruit freezes well. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh salad.