What To Know
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Spread pulled jackfruit over a pizza crust and top with your favorite toppings for a unique and delicious plant-based pizza.
- Jackfruit pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Jackfruit, a tropical fruit known for its versatility, has become a popular plant-based substitute for pulled pork. Its meaty texture and mild flavor make it an excellent choice for creating a delicious and satisfying vegan or vegetarian dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large jackfruit (or 2 cans of jackfruit)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup liquid smoke (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jackfruit
- If using fresh jackfruit, remove the seeds and cut the flesh into chunks. If using canned jackfruit, drain and rinse it well.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add the Jackfruit
- Add the jackfruit to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pan
- Pour in the vegetable broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add the Seasonings
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, liquid smoke (if using), apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Pull Apart the Jackfruit
- Use two forks to pull apart the jackfruit into strands, mimicking the texture of pulled pork.
Tips for the Perfect Jackfruit Pulled Pork:
- Choose a ripe jackfruit for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can add a teaspoon of smoked salt instead.
- Add more BBQ sauce to taste if desired.
- Serve the pulled jackfruit on buns, tacos, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.
Variations:
- Spicy Pulled Jackfruit: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Smoky Pulled Jackfruit: Cook the jackfruit over a charcoal or wood-fired grill for a smoky flavor.
- Hawaiian Pulled Jackfruit: Add some pineapple chunks and a splash of pineapple juice to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches: Serve the pulled jackfruit on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions.
- Jackfruit Tacos: Fill tortillas with pulled jackfruit, beans, rice, and salsa for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Jackfruit Pizza: Spread pulled jackfruit over a pizza crust and top with your favorite toppings for a unique and delicious plant-based pizza.
Beyond Pulled Pork
Jackfruit is not only a great substitute for pulled pork but can also be used in various other dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Jackfruit Curry: Add pulled jackfruit to a vegetable curry for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Jackfruit Stir-Fry: Stir-fry pulled jackfruit with vegetables and a savory sauce for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Jackfruit Burgers: Form pulled jackfruit into patties and grill or pan-fry them for a plant-based burger alternative.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Is jackfruit pulled pork healthy?
A: Yes, jackfruit pulled pork is a healthy and nutritious option. It is low in calories and fat and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Q: How long does jackfruit pulled pork last?
A: Jackfruit pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use canned jackfruit to make pulled pork?
A: Yes, you can use canned jackfruit to make pulled pork. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well before using it.
