Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Ribs

Ingredients

The original American barbecue ribs are typically made with pork or beef, slow-cooked and slathered in a rich barbecue sauce. In this vegan adaptation, we replace the meat with jackfruit, a versatile fruit that mimics the texture of pulled pork. The sauce is also modified to be plant-based, ensuring a delicious and compassionate alternative. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 cans (20 oz / 560g) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed 2 cans (20 oz / 560g) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable broth 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable broth

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 35g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet and break it apart using a fork or your hands, resembling pulled pork.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the jackfruit. Stir well to coat the jackfruit evenly with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the barbecue sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Transfer the jackfruit mixture to a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and caramelize.
8. 8.
   Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Jackfruit — Make sure to use young green jackfruit in brine, as it has a meat-like texture. Avoid using ripe jackfruit, as it will be too sweet for this recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
• Serve the ribs with coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
• Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you don't have jackfruit, you can substitute it with mushrooms or seitan for a different texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Ribs on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. Accompany them with your favorite barbecue sides, such as baked beans, potato salad, or grilled vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the ribs on the platter in a neat and appetizing manner. Drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce on top for a glossy finish. Add a sprig of fresh herbs for a pop of color.