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Banana Peel Pulled Pork

A creative plant-based BBQ alternative using shredded banana peels. Smoky, tender, and flavorful, this vegan pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches or sliders. Sustainable, zero-waste, and packed with spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Dinner Sandwich, Main Dish
Cuisine: BBQ, Plant-Based, vegan
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large ripe bananas yellow with slight green tips, peels only
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon hot smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt to taste (add at end)
  • 1/3 cup BBQ sauce vegan-friendly
  • 4 vegan sandwich buns
  • Optional: vegan coleslaw pickled jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Wash banana peels thoroughly and remove any residue.
  2. Remove the inner white membrane from each peel to reduce bitterness.
  3. Shred the peels into 2–3 inch strips using a fork.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add shredded banana peels and sprinkle all spices except salt.
  6. Stir to coat evenly and cook 5–10 minutes, adding small splashes of water to tenderize.
  7. Once peels are tender but slightly firm, add BBQ sauce and cook for 30–60 seconds to combine flavors.
  8. Taste and season with salt if needed.
  9. Toast sandwich buns lightly.
  10. Assemble sandwiches: pile banana peel “pulled pork” on buns.
  11. Top with vegan coleslaw, pickled jalapeños, or extra BBQ sauce if desired.
  12. Serve immediately to enjoy peak textures and flavors.

Notes

Banana peel selection is key: slightly green-yellow peels offer perfect texture. Shredding with a fork mimics pulled pork. Adjust spice blend and BBQ sauce to taste. Serve fresh for optimal crunch and juiciness in sandwiches.