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Jackfruit BBQ Recipe: A Delicious Plant-Based Delight

If you’re looking for a delightful plant-based option for your next barbecue, look no further than jackfruit! This tropical fruit has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its unique texture and ability to absorb flavours, making it a fantastic meat substitute in various dishes. Whether you’re a fully-fledged vegan or simply trying to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this Jackfruit BBQ recipe is sure to impress.

What is Jackfruit?

Jackfruit is a large, tropical fruit native to South Asia and is known for its sweet flesh and meaty texture. When unripe, its subtle flavour and fibrous consistency resemble pulled pork, making it an excellent alternative for BBQ dishes. Available canned or fresh, jackfruit is often found in Asian supermarkets or health food stores. For this recipe, we recommend using young green jackfruit in a brine, which is typically canned for convenience.

Ingredients

For the Jackfruit BBQ:

• 2 cans (about 400g each) young green jackfruit in brine or water (not syrup)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 200ml BBQ sauce of your choice (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Burger buns
• Coleslaw (optional)
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jackfruit:
   Begin by draining and rinsing the jackfruit. Place it in a large pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes to soften. Once done, drain it again and allow it to cool slightly.

2. Shred the Jackfruit:
   Using your hands or two forks, shred the jackfruit to achieve a pulled texture. Discard any hard seed pieces, and set the shredded jackfruit aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Combine and Simmer:
   Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and spices. Pour in the BBQ sauce, mix well, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the jackfruit to absorb all those wonderful flavours.

5. Prepare the Grill:
   If you’re using a grill or barbecue, preheat it to medium heat. If using a grill pan, ensure it’s well-heated too.

6. Grill the Jackfruit:
   Once the mixture is well-combined and heated through, use a grill spatula to transfer the jackfruit to the grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to char slightly and develop a smoky flavour, turning occasionally.

7. Assemble the Burgers:
   Serve the barbecued jackfruit on burger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander for an extra layer of flavour.

Tips for Success

• Make it Ahead: This BBQ jackfruit can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Try Different Sauces: Experiment with various BBQ sauces, from tangy to sweet, to personalise the flavour profile to your liking.
• Serve with Sides: Pair your jackfruit BBQ burgers with traditional side dishes like corn on the cob, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Jackfruit BBQ recipe is not just a fantastic alternative for plant-based eaters; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by everyone at your next summer gathering. With its satisfying texture and rich flavour, the jackfruit truly shines when grilled or barbecued. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and hearty dish!