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BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich Rice Bowl

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Pulled jackfruit simmers in smoky barbecue sauce, taking on a tender, savory profile that matches finely shredded meat. Fresh garlic, onion, and spices infuse each bite, while the sauce caramelizes for extra depth. Paired with perfectly steamed white rice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro, the plate balances richness and freshness. Toasted buns offer another serving option for a quick, handheld meal. Lemon wedges add bright acidity and the dish welcomes topping with pickled onions or cool coleslaw for more crunch and zing. Plated with care, this plant-based meal delivers bold BBQ satisfaction.

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Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Sat, 24 May 2025 09:01:10 GMT
A sandwich with meat and rice on a wooden table. Save
A sandwich with meat and rice on a wooden table. | recipesfoodyummy.com

This BBQ jackfruit sandwich with fluffy white rice delivers all the comfort food vibes of classic pulled pork but is entirely plant-based and bright with fresh herbs and smoky flavor. Inspired by summer cookouts and quick weeknight cravings alike, the combination of tangy jackfruit, tender rice, and a toasted bun makes this one of my favorite meatless meals to satisfy everyone at the table.

I first made this with friends for a backyard BBQ and nobody could believe it was not real pulled pork. Now it is my go-to when I want comfort food that still feels fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients

  • Young green jackfruit in brine: choose firm pale chunks from the can and rinse away the brine for best texture
  • Olive oil: helps everything caramelize and adds richness to the filling
  • Onion: finely chopped to build an aromatic savory base
  • Garlic: brings intensity and depth with every bite
  • Smoked paprika: opt for Spanish smoked style for the most authentic smokiness
  • Ground cumin: gives an earthy backbone that mimics slow-cooked BBQ
  • Chili powder: adds heat and complexity use a mild type unless you love spice
  • Smoky BBQ sauce: pick your favorite store-bought or homemade variety for sweet tangy flavor
  • Salt and pepper: round out all the flavors taste and adjust as needed
  • White rice: long-grain or jasmine keeps things light and soaks up sauces beautifully
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro: brightens the whole plate choose it fresh and vibrant green
  • Lemon wedges: add a zingy burst that cuts through the richness
  • Sandwich buns or rolls: go for fluffy but sturdy types that toast up golden
  • Optional pickled onions or coleslaw: lend crunch or tang for more contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit:
Shred the jackfruit pieces with forks or your hands breaking them up until they resemble pulled meat. Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium then add finely chopped onion and cook slowly for about eight minutes so the onions turn glossy and sweet. Add minced garlic plus smoked paprika cumin and chili powder stirring constantly for about thirty seconds to unlock their aromas. Add jackfruit and cook for five to seven minutes until the edges start to brown and the mixture is sizzling and fragrant. Pour in BBQ sauce and simmer over low heat for ten to fifteen minutes stirring occasionally until the jackfruit darkens and turns glossy and sticky. At the end season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Rice:
Pour two cups of water into a pot and add a pinch of salt then bring to a boil over high heat. Add one cup of rice and stir once then lower the heat cover and let it cook gently for about fifteen minutes. When the water is absorbed turn off the heat and let the rice rest covered for five minutes before fluffing with a fork for perfect texture.
Assemble the Dish:
Spoon a generous portion of rice onto one side of a clean white bowl making a high fluffy mound. Place a big helping of BBQ jackfruit right beside the rice folding it into a friendly pile. Scatter chopped parsley or cilantro over the rice for color and add a few lemon wedges along the rim for brightness and visual appeal.
Sandwich Style Option:
For a hand-held version pile the jackfruit mixture high onto lightly toasted sandwich buns or rolls. Serve the rice on the side for a balanced plate.
Style Tip for Presentation:
For a gorgeous look use a white marble surface with soft daylight for your backdrop. Set the bowl on a neutral linen napkin and add a wooden-handled fork for an inviting magazine-worthy scene.
A sandwich with meat and rice on a wooden table. Save
A sandwich with meat and rice on a wooden table. | recipesfoodyummy.com

I always get excited with the lemon wedges on the side because that fresh squeeze of citrus really wakes up all the BBQ spices. My youngest niece once asked for thirds on the jackfruit and now insists we make it any time family is together.

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool then store the jackfruit and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Both reheat beautifully in the microwave or on a stovetop with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if needed. The jackfruit mixture also freezes well for future sandwiches or wraps.

Ingredient Substitutions

If jackfruit is unavailable try shredded king oyster mushrooms or even canned hearts of palm for a similar texture and ability to soak up BBQ sauce. For the rice swap in brown rice for extra fiber or quinoa for a nutty boost. Play with different BBQ sauces from sweet to spicy based on your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the BBQ jackfruit piled onto buns with a mound of tangy coleslaw for classic picnic flair or keep it simple with rice and a few bright pickles. For a party platter offer both rice bowls and sandwich fixings along with fresh salads or corn on the cob. Leftover jackfruit also makes an amazing taco or burrito filling with avocado and salsa.

A Bit of Context

Jackfruit has been used for savory and sweet dishes across South and Southeast Asia for generations. Its ability to mimic pulled pork in texture with a mild slightly fruity taste has made it popular among plant-based cooks worldwide especially for iconic comfort foods like this BBQ sandwich.

Recipe FAQs

→ What texture does jackfruit provide in this dish?

Jackfruit has a meaty, shredded texture that closely resembles pulled pork or chicken after cooking, making it perfect for hearty sandwiches.

→ Can I use another grain instead of white rice?

Yes, quinoa, brown rice, or even couscous can be substituted, but white rice offers a soft, neutral base that complements the smoky flavors.

→ How do I make the jackfruit more flavorful?

Allow the jackfruit to simmer in the barbecue sauce and spices until sticky and caramelized. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.

→ What are some serving ideas?

Enjoy the jackfruit over rice in a bowl or pile it onto toasted sandwich buns. Add fresh herbs, lemon, or toppings like pickled onions as desired.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, both the jackfruit and rice can be made ahead and stored separately. Reheat before serving for convenient meals throughout the week.

→ Which herbs work best for garnish?

Fresh parsley and cilantro brighten the dish and provide herbal freshness. Chives or mint can also be used for a different twist.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich White Rice

Smoky BBQ jackfruit, soft white rice, and toasted buns create a hearty, satisfying plant-based meal with fresh flavor.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cooking Time
30 mins
Total Duration
45 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: Fusion

Portions Yielded: 4 Serving Size (4 bowls or sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ BBQ Jackfruit

01 2 cans (400 g each) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
08 180 ml smoky BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
09 Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

→ Rice and Garnish

10 200 g white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
11 480 ml water
12 Salt, to taste
13 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
14 Lemon wedges, for garnish

→ For Serving

15 Sandwich buns or rolls, lightly toasted
16 Optional: pickled onions or coleslaw

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Shred drained jackfruit pieces with hands or forks. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté onion until softened. Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder; stir for 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 02

Add shredded jackfruit and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly browned. Pour in BBQ sauce and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture is thick and caramelised. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 03

Bring water and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender and fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 04

Spoon steamed rice onto one side of a clean white bowl. Arrange BBQ jackfruit beside the rice. Garnish rice with chopped parsley or cilantro and add lemon wedges for brightness.

Step 05

Pile BBQ jackfruit onto toasted buns and serve with rice on the side. Add pickled onions or coleslaw if desired.

Notes and Tips

  1. For best flavor, allow the jackfruit to simmer until sticky and well-caramelised before serving.
  2. Use lemon wedges to enhance the freshness of the dish.

Required Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan with lid
  • Chopping board and knife
  • Forks for shredding
  • Serving bowls or sandwich buns

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Check BBQ sauce and sandwich buns for possible gluten, soy, or mustard ingredients.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 370
  • Fats: 5.7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 67.5 g
  • Proteins: 5.6 g