Pulled Pork Vegan Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Updated On: October 2, 2025

Looking for a delicious, hearty meal that satisfies your craving for classic pulled pork without using any animal products? Our pulled pork vegan recipe is here to delight both vegans and meat-eaters alike!

Using jackfruit, a versatile fruit with a texture remarkably similar to shredded meat, this recipe brings all the smoky, tangy, and savory flavors of traditional pulled pork to your plate. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a cookout, or just a comforting weeknight meal, this plant-based dish is sure to impress.

Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients and free from cholesterol and animal fats. Pair it with your favorite sides or stuff it into buns for a perfect vegan BBQ sandwich.

Plus, if you love trying vibrant vegetable dishes, be sure to check out Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan pulled pork is a game-changer for plant-based cooking. It’s:

  • Incredibly flavorful: The smoky barbecue sauce and spices mimic that classic pulled pork taste perfectly.
  • Healthy and nutrient-dense: Made with young green jackfruit, packed with fiber and low in calories.
  • Easy to prepare: Uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly on the stove or in a slow cooker.
  • Versatile: Great for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
  • Allergy-friendly: Soy-free, gluten-free options available by choosing the right barbecue sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite vegan brand)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Can opener
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Forks for shredding jackfruit (or your hands)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Optional: Slow cooker or Instant Pot for alternative cooking methods

Instructions

  1. Prepare the jackfruit: Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Using your fingers or forks, shred the pieces to resemble pulled pork strands by pulling apart the fruit gently but thoroughly.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the jackfruit: Toss the shredded jackfruit into the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the aroma.
  4. Season the jackfruit: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the jackfruit. Mix well to evenly coat all the strands with the spices.
  5. Pour in liquids: Add the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, vegetable broth, and maple syrup if using. Stir everything together so the jackfruit is thoroughly coated.
  6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jackfruit will soften and soak up the smoky barbecue flavor. If the mixture looks too dry, add a splash more vegetable broth or water.
  7. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
  8. Serve: Pile your vegan pulled pork onto toasted buns, tortillas, or over rice. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce mixture.”

  • Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours for a hands-off approach.
  • Instant Pot shortcut: Use the sauté function for steps 2-5, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
  • Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like a spicier pulled pork.
  • Sweet & tangy twist: Mix in pineapple juice or chopped pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor.
  • Jackfruit alternatives: If you can’t find jackfruit, shredded king oyster mushrooms or pulled oats can also work.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (1 cup)
Calories 180
Protein 3g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 12g
Sodium 450mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

  • Classic BBQ sandwich: Serve on a toasted vegan bun with coleslaw and pickles.
  • Tacos: Spoon into corn or flour tortillas with avocado slices, salsa, and cilantro.
  • Loaded baked potatoes: Top a baked potato with pulled jackfruit, vegan sour cream, and chives.
  • Salad topping: Add a smoky protein boost to your favorite green salad.
  • Rice bowls: Serve over steamed rice with sautéed veggies for a filling meal.

For more creative vegan dishes, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for something sweet to finish your meal.

Conclusion

This pulled pork vegan recipe is proof that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and flavorful as their meat counterparts. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can easily whip up a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or BBQs.

The jackfruit’s unique texture combined with smoky barbecue sauce makes for a truly delicious experience that even meat lovers will appreciate.

We hope you enjoy this recipe and feel inspired to explore more plant-based cooking. If you’re interested in baking your own vegan breads to accompany this pulled pork, don’t miss our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

📖 Recipe Card: Pulled Pork Vegan Recipe

Description: A delicious plant-based alternative to traditional pulled pork using jackfruit. Perfectly seasoned and tender, great for sandwiches or tacos.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine (20 oz total), drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • Burger buns or taco shells for serving

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse jackfruit, then shred it with your hands or forks.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté onion until soft.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; stir well.
  5. Pour in barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and vegetable broth; mix thoroughly.
  6. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Increase heat and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
  8. Serve warm on buns or taco shells.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 40g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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