Barbecue Pulled-Turkey Sandwiches
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 29 Jan 2026
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These barbecue pulled turkey sandwiches offer a delicious way to reinvent leftovers into a satisfying, high-protein meal. By simmering shredded turkey in a tangy, homemade sauce of tomato puree, dark brown sugar and smoked bacon, the meat stays succulent and absorbs deep, savoury flavours. The addition of a quick, vinegar-based cabbage slaw provides a refreshing crunch that perfectly balances the richness of the barbecue glaze.
Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use a mix of light and dark meat for the best texture, served inside your favourite soft rolls. Whether you are using up a Sunday roast or looking for a lean alternative to pulled pork, these sandwiches are a healthy, homemade classic that the whole family will enjoy.
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Ingredients for Barbecue Pulled-Turkey Sandwiches
45ml mayonnaise
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoons celery seeds
3 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
2 slices applewood-smoked bacon, chopped
240ml tomato puree
60ml apple cider vinegar
60ml water
3 tablespoons (packed) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon chilli powder
1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
350g shredded cooked turkey (light and dark meat)
4 soft rolls (such as onion, egg, sesame, or whole wheat)
How to make Barbecue Pulled-Turkey Sandwiches
Back to contentsWhisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and celery seeds in small bowl to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add cabbage; toss to blend. Cover bowl and chill. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
Sauté bacon in heavy small saucepan over medium heat until crisp and brown, about 5 minutes. Add tomato puree, apple cider vinegar, 60ml water, dark brown sugar, chilli powder, and ground cumin. Bring sauce to boil; reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add shredded cooked turkey to barbecue sauce and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until turkey is heated through, stirring occasionally. Split and toast rolls. Divide turkey and slaw among rolls. Press tops down lightly to compress, then serve.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
29 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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