Cherry Cola Jackfruit Sloppy Joes

This playful take on classic Sloppy Joes swaps out the beef for jackfruit, infusing it with a smoky cherry cola barbecue sauce that brings a sweet tang and rich depth. The result is a saucy, satisfying sandwich that just happens to be vegan and crowd-pleasing every time it hits the table. The cherry cola twist feels nostalgic and fun, making it a go-to for gatherings or weeknights when you want something familiar and exciting.

I first made these for a summer picnic and could not believe how quickly they vanished. Now they are my favorite when I want to surprise friends with something meatless and memorable.

Ingredients

• Canned young green jackfruit: The perfect plant-based base when you want meaty texture with mild flavor Look for the kind in brine not syrup and always drain and rinse well before using
• Olive oil: Helps brown and caramelize the veggies Go for extra virgin for robust flavor
• Yellow onion: Sweetness forms the backbone of the filling Choose a small firm onion with shiny skin
• Garlic: Brings warmth and depth Use fresh and mince just before cooking
• Red bell pepper: Adds crunch and color Pick one that is vibrant and glossy for best crunch
• Cherry cola: The secret ingredient delivers playful cherry sweetness and a hint of caramel Choose full strength not diet for rich sauce
• Tomato ketchup and tomato paste: Both round out the sauce with tang and thickness Go for ketchup with minimal additives and pure tomato paste
• Apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity for balance Raw unfiltered vinegar will add an extra note of complexity
• Brown sugar: Laces the sauce with warm sweetness Use dark brown for extra molasses richness
• Soy sauce: The umami boost that keeps things savory Opt for low sodium if you like to control the salt
• Smoked paprika: Infuses smokiness Choose Spanish smoked paprika for a deep woodsy aroma
• Ground black pepper: Balances sweetness with a little bite Freshly ground always tastes best
• Cayenne pepper: Optional for heat Adjust or skip depending on your spice preference
• Pitted cherries: Fresh or frozen works best but unsweetened dried cherries also offer a nice chew Chop roughly for good consistency
• Burger buns: Look for bakery fresh vegan buns or gluten free if needed They are the canvas for your filling
• Shredded lettuce and sliced red onion: Classic Sloppy Joe toppers for crunch and color Choose crisp lettuce and onions that are firm with tight skins
• Vegan mayonnaise: Optional for creamy richness Use your favorite store bought or homemade version

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Jackfruit:

Take the drained jackfruit and inspect each piece Remove any tough core bits They should be pale yellow and tender Use your hands or forks to pull them apart into thin shreds which mimic pulled pork

Sauté the Aromatics:

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Toss in the diced onion and let it sweat for about three minutes until it softens and turns slightly translucent Stir regularly so it does not brown too quickly Add the minced garlic and diced red pepper Cook two more minutes until their fragrances are released

Brown the Jackfruit:

Add your shredded jackfruit to the skillet Stir it into the veggies and let it cook for about five minutes The goal is to let the pieces dry out slightly and take on a bit of golden color Stir often so nothing sticks or burns

Mix the Barbecue Sauce:

In a medium bowl vigorously whisk together cherry cola ketchup tomato paste apple cider vinegar brown sugar soy sauce smoked paprika black pepper and cayenne if using You want a smooth glossy mixture that smells both sweet and tangy

Simmer with Sauce and Cherries:

Pour the barbecue sauce over the jackfruit mixture in your pan Add the chopped cherries and stir until every shred is coated Reduce heat to low Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes stirring every five minutes This melds flavors and thickens the sauce For the last five minutes uncover to help the sauce reduce to a sticky Sloppy Joe consistency

Toast and Stack the Buns:

Just before serving slice and toast your burger buns lightly for extra texture Lay out the bottoms ready for assembly

Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

Scoop generous mounds of cherry cola jackfruit onto the bun bases Pile on shredded lettuce and rings of red onion Spoon on vegan mayo if you want creamy tang Add the top buns and press gently Serve warm and messy

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You Must Know

• High in dietary fiber from jackfruit and veggies
• Works with gluten free buns for allergy friendly option
• Leftover filling can be used for tacos or over baked potatoes

Cherry cola always makes me think of summer fairs and family movie nights The way the sauce thickens and glazes the jackfruit is what makes this dish my favorite plant based crowd pleaser At my house my niece always tries to swipe extra filling for her lunchbox sandwiches

Storage Tips

Keep leftover jackfruit filling in an airtight container in the fridge It will last three to four days Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water if it thickens too much The filling also freezes well Portion into freezer bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Try pulled oyster mushrooms or store bought seitan if jackfruit is out of stock Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for soy free needs Swap buns for lettuce wraps or gluten free rolls for those with allergies Dried unsweetened cherries work when fresh or frozen are not available

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Serving Suggestions

These sloppy joes shine with crisp oven fries or a tangy slaw on the side For party trays pile the filling onto slider buns or top baked sweet potatoes Go bold with extra chopped cherries sprinkled on top for color and flavor

Cultural Context

Sloppy Joes are a beloved American comfort food dating to the early twentieth century Their messy sauciness has always meant fun and nostalgia Jackfruit brings a modern vegan update while cherry cola evokes a retro soda fountain vibe that makes the meal extra playful

Recipe FAQs

→ What does jackfruit taste like in this dish?

Jackfruit takes on a tender texture and soaks up the sweet, smoky BBQ sauce, offering a mild flavor reminiscent of shredded meat.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free burger buns and substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep it fully gluten-free.

→ How can I intensify the cherry flavor?

Increase the amount of chopped cherries or add a splash of cherry juice to boost the fruity notes in the barbecue sauce.

→ Are there alternative fillings to jackfruit?

Shredded mushrooms or pulled seitan work well as flavorful swaps if you want a different plant-based texture.

→ What toppings pair best with the filling?

Shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and vegan mayonnaise add freshness, crunch, and creaminess to balance the bold filling.