Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit

Name: Sliders with Pulled Jackfruit
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can young green jackfruit in brine; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon liquid smoke; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 mini slider buns; Coleslaw for topping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I always love a good slider, and these sliders with pulled jackfruit have become a favorite of mine. The tender, flavorful jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork while absorbing the smoky spices beautifully. I never expected plant-based sliders to pack such a punch of flavor, but this recipe has proven me wrong. Perfectly served on soft, mini buns with a tangy coleslaw, they are a hit at any gathering. Plus, they are super easy to prepare, making them a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:28:25.051Z

When I first tried making pulled jackfruit, I was amazed at how closely it resembled the real thing. This recipe has you marinate the jackfruit in a blend of spices, and then you cook it down to achieve a mouthwatering consistency. I find that using fresh jackfruit gives the best results, as it absorbs the flavors beautifully and has a delightful texture.

I also experimented with different condiments and discovered that a spicy aioli pairs exceptionally well. Adding it to the sliders enhances the smoky flavor of the jackfruit, creating a wonderful balance. This combination has certainly made these sliders a regular at my dinner parties.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Smoky and savory pulled jackfruit that satisfies like traditional sliders
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and cooking time
Perfect for parties, barbecues, or a cozy night in

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a versatile ingredient that mimics the texture of meat remarkably well when cooked. When selecting jackfruit for this recipe, it's essential to choose young green jackfruit packed in brine, as this variety is ideal for shredding and absorbing flavors. The high water content ensures the jackfruit becomes tender once cooked, making it an excellent substitute for pulled pork. For an even meatier texture, look for jackfruit that is firmer and less mature, ensuring a satisfying bite in every slider.

When properly prepared, the jackfruit takes on the smoky and savory flavors from liquid smoke and smoked paprika beautifully. This not only enhances its taste but also creates a pleasing aroma while cooking. If you find shredded jackfruit difficult to work with, consider using a food processor. Pulse gently; you want shredded, not puréed jackfruit, which may affect your slider’s texture.

Perfecting Your Sliders

The success of your sliders largely depends on your choice of buns. Mini slider buns should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy pulled jackfruit and coleslaw without falling apart. Look for whole wheat or gluten-free options if you want a healthier twist. Lightly toasting the buns in a dry skillet can add a lovely crispness, enhancing the overall texture while preventing them from getting soggy when layered with toppings.

Coleslaw is more than just a topping—it adds a crunchy freshness that balances the rich, smoky jackfruit. You can customize the coleslaw according to your taste; add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang or some diced apples for sweetness. For a vegan twist, use a dairy-free mayo, and if you want extra kick, include some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your pulled jackfruit sliders:

For the Sliders

1 can young green jackfruit in brine
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 mini slider buns
Coleslaw for topping

Ensure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to prepare delicious sliders with pulled jackfruit:

Prepare the Jackfruit

Drain and rinse the jackfruit under cold water. Remove the core and seeds, then shred the fruit using your hands or a fork.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Jackfruit

Add the shredded jackfruit to the pan along with soy sauce, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender.

Assemble the Sliders

Spoon the pulled jackfruit onto the slider buns and top with coleslaw. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy your delectable sliders with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sliders.

Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be prepped in advance for any gathering. The pulled jackfruit mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it in a pan over low heat until warmed through. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, intensifying the smokiness and savoriness of the dish.

If you're hosting a large crowd, consider doubling the jackfruit recipe. You can easily scale up without altering cooking times significantly. Just ensure to use a larger pot to allow enough room for even cooking, and keep an eye on it—stirring more frequently might be necessary to avoid sticking.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pulled jackfruit can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well for about three months, making it a convenient meal prep option. To freeze, allow the jackfruit to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date for easy tracking, and it will be ready whenever you need a quick, flavorful option.

When reheating frozen jackfruit, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. This method preserves the texture and moisture better than using a microwave, which can sometimes lead to a rubbery consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen jackfruit?

Yes, frozen jackfruit can be used, just ensure it's thawed and well-drained before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pulled jackfruit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free buns and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Try adding avocado slices, pickles, or your favorite sauce for more flavor.