Today I wanted to share a way you could use the shredded bbq jackfruit recipe from last week. When I think “bbq,” two things come to mind: summer and football. So what more fitting time of year than now to talk about these bbq jackfruit grain bowls. They do NOT skimp on the flavor and I I think even your carnivorous friends will love them. 😉

I’m using brown rice, but you can use any grain you like. Even cauliflower rice! You could also nix the rice and put the rest of the ingredients on a bun. Eat it like a sandwich instead of serving them as a grain bowl—it’s your life, baby!

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NOTE ABOUT THE PINEAPPLE. If you have a grill, I highly suggest cooking the pineapple that way instead of in a pan like I did. If you do grill it, cut a fresh pineapple into rounds, removing the core. Toss in the maple syrup and chili pepper and grill a couple minutes each side. You could also always put fresh pineapple in your bbq jackfruit grain bowl instead—still delicious.

Anyone else’s tongue sting when they eat raw pineapple? I read (and don’t quote me on this, I forget the source) that it’s due to an enzyme in the pineapple actually breaking down your tastebuds. Apparently if you cook the pineapple, it won’t have that effect. Just thought I’d share this unverified, un-researched fun “fact” with you so you’d have a conversation starter at your football tailgate today. 😉

Before I sign off for today, just a note about tomorrow’s workout. I WILL have a new YouTube video up, but it won’t be until the afternoon.

xo Nicole

I don’t feel like I’m missing out at all by not eating meat. Most of what makes our favorite meat dishes so delicious isn’t even the actual meat—it’s the sauces and seasoning with which it’s prepared! (Feel free to disagree with me in the comments on that one, steak lovers.) 😉 BBQ shredded jackfruit gives you all the flavor of your favorite barbecue chicken or pulled pork sandwich, but without the meat. Add some coleslaw and a bun and bam—perfect late summer/football season dish.

You can usually find canned jackfruit in the Asian/International section of your grocery store. If not, look for specialty Asian markets or just order it online. Yes, online. You truly can buy anything on Amazon. Just make sure that it’s canned in water (*not* syrup). It should also be unripe (it’ll usually say “young green” on the can).

We’re keeping this recipe easy today by using whatever your favorite brand of BBQ sauce is. But if you want to get your Martha Stewart on, you could always make your own sauce at home. This one from Making Thyme for Health looks delish! If you don’t have a go-to brand of BBQ sauce, I’d suggest looking for one with a simple ingredient list, and of course check that it’s vegan if you don’t eat animal products (not all are).

BBQ Shredded Jackfruit

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This isn’t freezer-friendly, but it’ll store in the refrigerator for a few days. Definitely best when served fresh off the stovetop though! My go-to meal with this is to pair it with coleslaw, either on a sandwich bun or in a grain bowl. I’ll share a bbq shredded jackfruit buddha bowl recipe next week if you need some inspiration. 🙂

xo Nicole