Welcome to the world of jackfruit! For many, the jackfruit has become a staple ingredient in their kitchens. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced cook, there’s something new you can learn about jackfruit. Here, we’ll look at the basics of how to cook jackfruit, as well as some recipes to get you started.
Contents
What is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It’s in the same family as figs and mulberries, and has a unique flavor and texture that makes it popular in both sweet and savory dishes. The fruit itself looks like a large, spiky green melon and can weigh up to 80 pounds! It has a sweet and fruity aroma, and the flesh is yellow and fibrous.
Jackfruit is a great source of nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve immunity.
How to Prepare Jackfruit
The first step to cooking with jackfruit is to prepare it. Start by washing the fruit and trimming the skin. It’s important to wear gloves when handling the fruit, as the sap can be irritating to the skin. Cut the fruit in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Then, cut the flesh into cubes and discard the core.
Table 1. Jackfruit Nutritional Values
| Nutrient | Amount (per 100 g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 1.7 g |
Types of Jackfruit
There are two main types of jackfruit: ripe and unripe. Ripe jackfruit is sweet and can be eaten raw or cooked. Unripe jackfruit has a more savory flavor and is usually cooked. Unripe jackfruit is also more fibrous than ripe jackfruit, so it’s often used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes.
How to Cook Jackfruit
Jackfruit is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular methods:
1. Roasting
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the jackfruit into cubes and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, then turn the cubes over and roast for an additional 20 minutes.
2. Boiling
Cut the jackfruit into cubes and place in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender. Remove from the heat and drain.
3. Grilling
Cut the jackfruit into cubes and place on a greased grill. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping every few minutes, until lightly charred. Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce.
4. Stovetop
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the jackfruit cubes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Add your favorite seasonings and serve.
Recipes Using Jackfruit
Once you’ve mastered the basics of how to cook jackfruit, you can start experimenting with recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Jackfruit Curry
This easy curry is a great way to make a flavorful vegan meal. Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Add a tablespoon of curry powder and cook for a minute. Add a can of coconut milk, a can of jackfruit, and a tablespoon of soy sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over rice or noodles and top with fresh cilantro.
2. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
This vegan sandwich is sure to be a hit! Start by grilling the cubes of jackfruit until lightly charred. Toss the cubes with your favorite barbecue sauce. Toast a bun and fill with the jackfruit, lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayonnaise. Enjoy!
3. Jackfruit Tacos
These tacos are packed with flavor! Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Add a can of jackfruit and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add your favorite seasonings and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve in warm tortillas with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and vegan sour cream.
Conclusion
Jackfruit is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to master the basics of how to cook jackfruit. Now that you know the basics, let your imagination run wild and create some delicious jackfruit recipes of your own!
If you’re still feeling a bit overwhelmed, don’t worry. Just remember the lyrics of the famous song: “Don’t worry, be happy!”
