Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Jackfruit: A Flavorful Vegan Delight!

This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Jackfruit recipe is the perfect plant-based alternative to pulled pork. Jackfruit, when cooked, has a texture similar to shredded meat, making it ideal for BBQ sandwiches, tacos, or served over rice. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready in no time using your Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Jackfruit Recipe

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cans (20 oz) young green jackfruit in brine or water (drained and rinsed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Buns or tortillas for serving
Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jackfruit:

Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit. Cut off the tough core of the jackfruit pieces and discard it (the “pods” are what you want). Use your hands or two forks to shred the jackfruit into smaller, “pulled” pieces. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Turn the Instant Pot to the Sauté setting and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the Jackfruit and Seasonings:

Add the shredded jackfruit to the Instant Pot along with the smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the jackfruit is evenly coated with the spices.

4. Add the Liquids:

Pour in the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup or brown sugar. Stir well to combine.

5. Pressure Cook:

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and cook on high for 15 minutes.
After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

6. Shred and Mix:

Open the Instant Pot lid and give the jackfruit a good stir. Use two forks to shred the jackfruit further into a pulled texture. Add more seasoning or BBQ sauce if needed.

7. Add BBQ Sauce:

Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat the jackfruit evenly. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté again and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and absorb into the jackfruit.

8. Serve:

Serve the pulled BBQ jackfruit on buns for sandwiches, over rice, or in tacos. Top with coleslaw for a traditional BBQ-style experience.

Tips:

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
BBQ Sauce: For a homemade BBQ sauce, you can mix ketchup, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, smoked paprika, and a little liquid smoke.
Storage: Leftover pulled BBQ jackfruit can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serve with Sides: Pair your pulled BBQ jackfruit with vegan potato salad, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Jackfruit:

Quick and Easy: With your Instant Pot, the jackfruit cooks in under 30 minutes, saving time without compromising flavor.
Perfectly Shredded: Jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork, making it the ideal meat substitute for BBQ dishes.
Flavor Packed: The combination of spices, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce creates a savory, tangy flavor profile that will satisfy your BBQ cravings.
Versatile: Enjoy this pulled BBQ jackfruit in sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or wraps!

This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Jackfruit recipe is a simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing vegan alternative to traditional BBQ meats. It’s perfect for meal prep, a quick weeknight dinner, or feeding a group of guests. Enjoy!