Prep the jackfruit
Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Use your hands or a fork to remove tough cores and seeds if you see them. Pull the pieces apart into rough shreds.
Sauté aromatics
Heat 1 tsp olive oil or a splash of water in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for 1 minute.
Simmer the jackfruit
Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet with 1 cup BBQ sauce and ½ cup water. Stir to combine. Cover and reduce to medium-low heat. Cook 15 minutes, then stir and add a little more water if the mixture looks dry. Cover and cook a further 15 minutes.
Shred & season
Use a potato masher or fork to press and shred the jackfruit until it resembles pulled pork. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, liquid smoke, salt, and pepper. Taste and add more BBQ sauce if you want it saucier.
Toast buns & assemble
Split and toast the buns lightly in a dry pan or oven. Pile the BBQ jackfruit on each bun, add pickled red onions, lettuce, avocado, or grilled pineapple if using. Drizzle with vegan ranch or extra BBQ sauce. Serve immediately.
