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This Smoky Espresso Jackfruit Pulled “Pork” is a deeply flavorful vegan BBQ dish. Tender green jackfruit is slowly simmered with smoked paprika, espresso powder, maple syrup, tomato paste, soy sauce, garlic, and apple cider vinegar. The espresso enhances the roasted, “meaty” umami flavor. Served over rice, it’s a hearty, satisfying, and plant-based comfort meal.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Modern
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Jackfruit Pulled “Pork”

  • 2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine drained and shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 –2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp espresso powder or finely ground coffee
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or basmati
  • Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Jackfruit

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add shredded jackfruit, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and espresso powder. Stir to coat evenly.

Step 2: Simmer & Flavor

  • Pour in vegetable broth, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and fully infused with flavor.
  • Use a fork to shred further if needed, creating a pulled-pork texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Serve

  • Serve hot over cooked rice.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
  • Optional: add vegan coleslaw or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Coffee as Umami Booster: Espresso powder intensifies the smoky, roasted flavor and adds a “meaty” richness.
  • Make Ahead: Jackfruit can be cooked ahead and reheated; flavors deepen overnight.
  • Spice Adjustment: Add chili flakes for heat or extra smoked paprika for more smokiness.
  • Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 2–3 days; reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Keyword BBQ jackfruit with rice, coffee pulled jackfruit, jackfruit pulled pork, meatless pulled pork, plant-based pulled pork, smoky espresso jackfruit, umami vegan recipe, vegan BBQ recipe, vegan comfort food, vegan pulled pork