We’re bringing smoky BBQ magic without the bones, the mess, or the guilt—and yes, it’s still ribs, just smarter and plant-based. These vegan BBQ “ribs” slow-cook themselves while you do literally anything more glamorous than scrubbing a smoker. Jackfruit brings the pull, the sauce brings the sass, and your Crockpot does all the heavy lifting. And just when you think it can’t get better—enter coffee panna cotta, a velvety diva of a dessert. It’s bold, creamy, and knows it’s fabulous. So yes, you just nailed dinner, dessert, and delicious domination—without breaking a nail.

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs with Coffee Panna Cotta
Smoky, sticky slow-cooked BBQ ribs made from jackfruit and served with a smooth, espresso-infused coffee panna cotta—completely vegan and outrageously satisfying.
Ingredients
Vegan BBQ Ribs:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine 20 oz total, drained and shredded
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Coffee Panna Cotta:
- 1 1/2 cups almond milk
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp agar-agar powder
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or coconut whip for garnish
Instructions
BBQ Ribs:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add jackfruit, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Toss the seasoned jackfruit into your slow cooker.
- Pour in BBQ sauce and stir like you’re stirring up drama.
- Cook on low for 6 hours.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce and eye rolls for anyone who asks if it’s real meat.
Coffee Panna Cotta:
- In a saucepan, combine almond milk, coffee, syrup, and vanilla.
- Sprinkle in agar-agar while whisking.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour into ramekins and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish if you’re feeling extra—or don’t, it’s still fabulous.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 330
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
Vitamins and Minerals Present (Per Serving)
- Iron: 21%
- Calcium: 23%
- Vitamin C: 14%
- Magnesium: 16%
- Potassium: 12%
Any Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor for the Recipe
- Use hickory-smoked BBQ sauce for bold flavor that says “I own this kitchen.”
- Shred jackfruit well—it’s not a steak, it’s an illusion.
- Let the panna cotta set overnight for ultimate creamy texture.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the coffee base for warm dessert vibes.
- Serve everything with a smug smile—you earned it.