BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Ingredients:

• 1 can young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed (you can find this at most Asian grocery stores or online)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your slightly spicy and ketchup-y BBQ sauce)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Slider buns
• Coleslaw, for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until well-combined.
3. Using your hands or a fork, shred the jackfruit. It should have a pulled pork-like texture. Add the shredded jackfruit to the BBQ sauce mixture and toss until the jackfruit is evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the jackfruit and any remaining BBQ sauce to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the jackfruit has slightly browned.
5. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the jackfruit is crispy on the outside.
6. Serve the jackfruit on slider buns with coleslaw, if desired.

Flavor Profile:

The BBQ jackfruit sliders are a vegan take on classic BBQ pulled pork sliders. The slightly spicy and ketchup-y flavor of the BBQ sauce adds sweetness and tanginess to the jackfruit, while the smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder add depth and smokiness. The sliders are best served with creamy coleslaw, which adds a refreshing crunch to complement the savory jackfruit. Happy cooking!