A great vegan pulled pork BBQ substitute is jackfruit!

A great vegan pulled pork BBQ substitute is jackfruit! is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Tabitha Brown on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $31.22 total, $15.61 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (20 oz each) Young Green Canned Jackfruit (drained, rinsed, and squeezed dry; pull apart into shreds)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (adds brightness to the jackfruit)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt‑Free Multi‑Spice Blend (any all‑purpose seasoning without added salt)
  • ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (pure, for a hint of sweetness)
  • ½ cup Barbecue Sauce (store‑bought or homemade; choose a gluten‑free version if needed)
  • 6 large leaves Collard Green Leaves (rinsed, stems trimmed, pat dry)
  • 2 cups Green Cabbage (shredded)
  • ½ cup Carrot (shredded)
  • ¼ cup Plain Raw Yogurt (for a creamy, dairy‑based coleslaw dressing)
  • 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar (for coleslaw)
  • ¼ teaspoon Sea Salt (for coleslaw)
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Pickles (sliced; optional)
  • 1 small Tomato (sliced; optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and Dry the Jackfruit

    Open the cans, pour the jackfruit into a colander, rinse quickly, then press firmly with a kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Shred the Jackfruit

    Using your hands or two forks, pull apart the jackfruit pieces into bite‑size shreds that resemble pulled pork.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Sauté the Jackfruit

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded jackfruit, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt‑free multi‑spice, ½ tsp sea salt, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Stir to coat evenly.

    Time: PT12M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  4. Add Barbecue Sauce

    Pour ½ cup barbecue sauce over the browned jackfruit, stir well, and let it simmer for another 3‑4 minutes so the sauce thickens and clings.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  5. Prepare the Yogurt Coleslaw

    In a mixing bowl combine 2 cups shredded green cabbage, ½ cup shredded carrot, ¼ cup plain raw yogurt, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, ¼ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Prep the Collard Green Wraps

    Rinse the collard leaves under cold water, pat dry, and trim the thick central stem. If the leaves are stiff, microwave them for 15 seconds to soften.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Assemble the Wraps

    Lay a collard leaf flat, place a generous spoonful of the BBQ jackfruit in the center, add a mound of yogurt coleslaw, and optional sliced pickles or tomato. Fold the sides over and roll tightly like a burrito.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Serve

    Plate the wraps, drizzle any extra BBQ sauce on top, and enjoy immediately while warm.

    Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
8 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
8 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if using gluten‑free BBQ sauce), Low‑Carb

Allergens: Soy (in BBQ sauce), Dairy (yogurt)

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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A great vegan pulled pork BBQ substitute is jackfruit!

Recipe by Tabitha Brown

A plant‑based twist on the classic pulled pork BBQ sandwich using canned young green jackfruit, tangy BBQ sauce, creamy yogurt coleslaw, and sturdy collard green leaves as low‑carb wraps. Inspired by Tabitha Brown’s vibrant kitchen style, this recipe is quick, comforting, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

EasyAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
36m
Prep
4m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
50m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$31.22
Total cost
$15.61
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Squeezing out excess liquid from the canned jackfruit
  • Cooking the jackfruit until nicely browned
  • Softening collard leaves to prevent tearing

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and skillet with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Use a sharp knife carefully when shredding cabbage and trimming collard stems.
  • Ensure the jackfruit reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of jackfruit BBQ collard wraps in Southern American cuisine?

A

Jackfruit has become a popular plant‑based substitute for pulled pork in Southern‑style BBQ, especially among vegans and health‑conscious eaters. Collard greens are a staple side in Southern cooking, and using them as wraps adds a low‑carb, nutrient‑dense twist to the traditional sandwich.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of pulled‑jackfruit BBQ dishes in the United States?

A

In the Southeast, pulled jackfruit is often paired with sweet‑tangy Carolina‑style BBQ sauce, while in Texas‑inspired versions the sauce is spicier and smoky. Some cooks serve it on biscuits, whereas Tabitha Brown’s version uses collard wraps for a low‑carb alternative.

cultural
Q

How is the authentic traditional way to serve pulled jackfruit BBQ in Southern cuisine?

A

Traditionally, pulled pork (or its jackfruit counterpart) is served on a soft bun with a side of coleslaw and pickles. Tabitha Brown’s adaptation replaces the bun with collard greens, offering a gluten‑free, nutrient‑rich presentation while keeping the classic flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is jackfruit BBQ collard wraps traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

Barbecue gatherings, family picnics, and holiday cook‑outs are common occasions for pulled‑meat dishes. The jackfruit version fits perfectly into vegan or health‑focused celebrations while still honoring the communal spirit of Southern BBQ.

cultural
Q

What makes jackfruit BBQ collard wraps special or unique in American Southern cuisine?

A

The combination of plant‑based jackfruit that mimics the texture of pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and nutrient‑dense collard greens creates a low‑carb, gluten‑free sandwich that still delivers the smoky, sweet flavors beloved in Southern cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making jackfruit BBQ collard wraps?

A

Common errors include not draining the jackfruit enough, overcrowding the pan which prevents browning, and using stiff collard leaves that tear. Follow the critical steps: squeeze the jackfruit, cook until golden, and soften the leaves before rolling.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use raw yogurt for the coleslaw instead of mayonnaise?

A

Tabitha Brown prefers raw yogurt to keep the coleslaw lighter, tangier, and probiotic‑rich. Yogurt also adds creaminess without the extra saturated fat found in traditional mayo.

technical
Q

Can I make the jackfruit BBQ collard wraps ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Cook the jackfruit and prepare the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance, storing each in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the collard leaves crisp.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the jackfruit is done cooking?

A

The jackfruit should be golden‑brown on the edges, slightly crispy, and coated in a thick, glossy BBQ glaze. It should resemble shredded pork with a bit of caramelization.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Tabitha Brown specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Tabitha Brown focuses on wholesome, plant‑based comfort food, vegan comfort meals, and uplifting lifestyle content, often featuring simple, heart‑warming recipes that are accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Tabitha Brown's approach to vegan Southern cooking differ from other vegan cooking channels?

A

Tabitha Brown blends Southern soul‑food flavors with vegan ingredients, emphasizing positivity, easy‑to‑follow steps, and ingredient accessibility. Unlike some channels that prioritize gourmet techniques, she keeps recipes home‑style, budget‑friendly, and infused with her signature warm personality.

channel

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