Vegan BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe That Everyone Will Love

Craving the smoky, tangy flavors of classic BBQ pulled pork but want to keep it completely plant-based? Look no further!

This vegan BBQ pulled pork recipe delivers all the mouthwatering satisfaction of traditional pulled pork without any animal products. Using tender jackfruit as the star ingredient, we recreate the texture and flavor of pulled pork, smothered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just want a comforting, meaty-style sandwich, this recipe is your go-to vegan delight.

The best part? This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and packed with wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

It’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. Serve it on a soft bun with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a guilt-free BBQ feast that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan BBQ pulled pork recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

• Authentic texture and flavor: The young green jackfruit mimics the shredded meat texture perfectly, soaking up the smoky, tangy barbecue sauce beautifully.
• Healthy and nutritious: Low in fat but high in fiber and essential nutrients, this dish supports a balanced vegan diet.
• Easy to prepare: No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. If you can open a can and stir a sauce, you can make this!
• Versatile serving: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even as a topping on baked potatoes.
• Kid-friendly: Many find this dish so tasty, even the pickiest eaters won’t suspect it’s vegan.

Ingredients

• 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine (not in syrup), drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil or your preferred cooking oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegan barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt, to taste
• Soft buns or sandwich rolls, for serving
• Pickles, coleslaw, or fresh herbs, optional toppings

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium bowl for shredding jackfruit
• Forks or your hands to shred the jackfruit
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Cutting board and knife for chopping onion and garlic

Instructions

1. Prepare the jackfruit: Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit thoroughly to remove the brine taste. Using your hands or two forks, shred the jackfruit into pieces resembling pulled pork. Remove any seeds or core pieces that are too hard or large.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add the shredded jackfruit: Toss the shredded jackfruit into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to brown slightly and develop flavor.
4. Season: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, chili powder, and salt. Stir until the jackfruit is evenly coated with the spices.
5. Add liquids: Pour in the soy sauce and vegetable broth, stirring everything together. Then add the BBQ sauce, mixing well to cover all the jackfruit pieces in the sauce.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The jackfruit will absorb the sauce and become tender.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or BBQ sauce as needed. If you like it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or more chili powder.
8. Serve: Pile the BBQ jackfruit onto soft buns or rolls. Top with your favorite accompaniments like vegan coleslaw, pickles, or fresh herbs.

Tips & Variations

For an even smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce before simmering.

• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
• Add heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to spice things up.
• Slow cooker option: Prepare the jackfruit mixture and cook on low for 3-4 hours for deeper flavor development. Check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker for more ideas.
• Try different sauces: Swap traditional BBQ sauce for a tangy mustard-based sauce or a sweet and spicy Asian-inspired glaze.
• Serving ideas: Use the pulled jackfruit as a topping for baked potatoes or stuffed into tacos for a fun twist.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan BBQ pulled pork is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• Classic BBQ sandwich: Serve on a toasted vegan bun with homemade vegan coleslaw for crunch and creaminess.
• Taco night: Spoon the pulled jackfruit into warm corn tortillas and top with avocado, cilantro, and lime juice.
• Loaded baked potatoes: Top fluffy baked potatoes with the BBQ jackfruit, vegan sour cream, and chives.
• Salad topping: Add to a fresh green salad with corn, black beans, and a smoky chipotle dressing for a hearty meal.
• Wrap it up: Roll the jackfruit with lettuce, tomato, and vegan ranch in a tortilla for a quick lunch.

Conclusion

This vegan BBQ pulled pork recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors and textures of traditional BBQ while keeping your meals plant-based and nutritious. Using simple pantry staples like canned jackfruit and BBQ sauce, you can whip up a smoky, tender, and flavorful dish that pleases vegans and meat-eaters alike.

Whether for a casual weeknight meal or a festive summer party, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Remember, great plant-based cooking is all about experimenting and making dishes your own. Feel free to tweak the spices, swap sauces, or add your favorite toppings to create the perfect BBQ pulled “pork” sandwich tailored just for you.

For more wholesome and delicious vegan recipes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe for a sweet treat or explore savory options like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe to elevate your pasta dishes. Dive into plant-based cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!

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