Jackfruit

Jackfruit tree

Jackfruit is a perennial tropical fruit grown in many countries including India, Caribbean, and other South East Asian and African countries.

Scientific name

Artocarpus heterophyllus

Common name

Common Name Jackfruit

Family

Family Moraceae

Edible part

The edible part of the tree is the various parts of the jackfruit including the sweet fruit and the seeds used in making curries in South India.

Culinary Uses

Jackfruit is a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. The flesh can be eaten raw or cooked, and is often used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes due to its texture and ability to absorb flavors. In savory dishes, jackfruit is often used as a substitute for pulled pork or shredded chicken. The fruit can be marinated in spices and sauces, and then baked or sautéed to create a flavorful, protein-rich dish. Jackfruit can also be used in sweet dishes, such as desserts and smoothies. The fruit can be blended with coconut milk and sweetened with honey or sugar to create a creamy, tropical treat.

Nutritional Benefits

Jackfruit is a nutritious fruit that is high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also a good source of antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds, which can help to protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. One cup (165 grams) of sliced, raw jackfruit contains approximately:

• 155 calories
• 3 grams of protein
• 2 grams of fat
• 38 grams of carbohydrates
• 2.5 grams of fiber
• 14 grams of sugar
• 739 mg of potassium
• 24 mg of vitamin C

Sustainability

Jackfruit is often touted as a sustainable alternative to meat, as it requires less water, land, and other resources to produce than many types of meat. In addition, the fruit is often grown using agroforestry practices, which promote biodiversity and the conservation of natural resources.

Culinary Preparations

When preparing jackfruit, it is important to note that the fruit can be sticky and difficult to handle. To avoid this, it is often recommended to coat the knife and hands with oil before cutting into the fruit. The flesh of the jackfruit can be used in a variety of culinary preparations, including curries, stews, and salads. The seeds of the fruit can also be roasted and eaten as a snack or added to soups and stews.

See also

• Tropical fruit
• Veganism
• Vegetarianism
• Sustainability
• Agroforestry

• Jack fruit edible part

• Jackfruit pudding

• Seeds of jackfruit

External links

• Nutrition and health benefits of jackfruit - a review