If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you’ve probably heard that jackfruit is the latest and greatest meat alternative that everyone is talking about. And if you haven’t, well, get ready to have your mind blown.
What Is Jackfruit and Why Is It So Great?
Jackfruit is a huge, spiky tropical fruit that grows on a tree. It’s native to South and Southeast Asia and is the largest fruit in the world. But beyond its size and exotic appearance, jackfruit has some pretty amazing qualities that make it a superstar ingredient for vegans and vegetarians.
- It’s high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Just one serving of jackfruit provides about 10% of your daily fiber needs, plus it’s packed with vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
- It’s low in calories and fat. One cup of jackfruit contains only about 157 calories and 0.4 grams of fat, making it a guilt-free option for those watching their weight.
- It has a meat-like texture. When cooked, jackfruit can be shredded or sliced to resemble pulled pork or chicken strips, making it a perfect substitute for meat in dishes.
But perhaps the best thing about jackfruit is its versatility. Whether you’re craving savory meals or sweet treats, there’s a jackfruit recipe out there for you.
Savory Jackfruit Dishes
One of the most popular ways to use jackfruit is as a pulled pork substitute. Simply drain a can of jackfruit, shred it with a fork, and mix it with some BBQ sauce. Serve it on a bun with some coleslaw and pickles, and you’ve got yourself a delicious and guilt-free sandwich.
Jackfruit is also great in tacos and burritos. Just season and cook it with some spices, then fill your tortillas with beans, rice, avocado, and jackfruit.
For those who love curries and stir-fries, jackfruit is a must-try. You can find it pre-cut in cans or jars, or buy it fresh and slice it into steaks or chunks. Then, cook it with your favorite spices and vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Sweet Jackfruit Treats
But jackfruit isn’t just for savory dishes. It’s also a great ingredient for sweets. Blend it up with some ice and your favorite flavors for a delicious jackfruit smoothie. Or make some jackfruit milkshake for a more decadent treat.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making some jackfruit-based desserts. You can find recipes for jackfruit cakes, pies, and even ice cream online.
How to Prepare Jackfruit
Before you can enjoy jackfruit in all its glory, you’ll need to know how to prepare it. Here are some tips and tricks for getting the most out of this amazing fruit.
Buying Jackfruit
If you’re lucky enough to live in a place where fresh jackfruit is available, look for one that has bright yellow skin with small brown spots. The fruit should also give slightly when pressed. If the skin is too bright yellow or too green, it’s not ripe yet. If it’s very soft or has black spots, it’s overripe.
If you can’t find fresh jackfruit, look for canned or jarred jackfruit in water or brine. You can also find it in jars with syrup, which is great for sweet dishes. Just make sure to drain it well before using.
There are two main varieties of jackfruit: the “pineapple jackfruit” and the “bulleyan jackfruit”. The pineapple jackfruit is smaller and has a tighter, more pineapple-like texture. It’s good for savory dishes, as you can shred it easily. The bulleyan jackfruit is larger and has a looser texture. It’s great for sweet dishes, as it has a more natural sweetness.
To prepare fresh jackfruit, first cut off the top and bottom of the fruit with a sharp knife. Then, make a lengthwise cut down the side of the fruit, going about halfway through. Use your fingers to gently pull apart the sections of the fruit, taking care to remove the tough outer layer and any seeds.
To prepare canned jackfruit, simply drain it well and use a fork to shred it into pieces.
Cooking Jackfruit
Once you’ve prepared your jackfruit, there are many ways to cook it. You can sauté it in a pan with some oil and spices, or grill it for a smoky flavor. You can also roast it in the oven for a more mellow taste.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to season your jackfruit well with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can also marinate it in your favorite sauces or dressings before cooking for added flavor.
The key to getting the perfect texture with jackfruit is to cook it until it’s tender but still has some bite to it. Overcooking it can make it mushy and unappetizing.
The Benefits of Choosing Jackfruit
Beyond being a delicious and versatile ingredient, jackfruit also has some great benefits for your health and the planet. Here are just a few reasons why you should give it a try.
- It’s a great way to reduce your meat consumption. Eating less meat is good for your health and the environment. Jackfruit is a delicious and satisfying way to do that without feeling like you’re missing out.
- It’s good for your gut health. Jackfruit is high in fiber, which is great for keeping your digestive system healthy and regular.
- It’s a sustainable ingredient. Jackfruit trees can produce fruit for over 100 years, and they don’t require a lot of water or pesticides to grow. Supporting sustainable agriculture is important for the planet and future generations.
Join the Jackfruit Revolution
Now that you know everything there is to know about jackfruit, it’s time to give it a try. You can find it in most grocery stores these days, so keep an eye out for it when you’re shopping. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making one of the delicious jackfruit recipes we’ve shared here?
Who knows? You might just find yourself joining the jackfruit revolution.