What is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is an exotic fruit native to South and Southeast Asia. It is one of the largest tree-borne fruits in the world, with some jackfruits reaching up to 80 pounds in weight. Jackfruit has a sweet and tangy flavor, and its flesh is yellowish-yellow and has a custard-like consistency when ripe. It is usually eaten raw, either fresh or pickled, but it can also be cooked. Its hard, green, unripe form is used as a meat substitute in vegan or vegetarian dishes. Jackfruit grows on tropical trees and requires a hot, humid climate for maximum production. It is popular in India and Bangladesh and is increasingly gaining popularity in the U.S. due to its unique flavor and potential health benefits.
What does Jackfruit taste like?
So, what does jackfruit taste like? The answer is that it depends! In its ripe form, jackfruit has a very sweet taste and can be compared to a combination of apples, bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. Its flesh has a fibrous texture, similar to a banana, and a nice custardy consistency. Unripe, or green, jackfruit is not too sweet, and is often used to mimic the taste and texture of meat in vegan and vegetarian dishes. Either way, it can be enjoyed in a wide variety of dishes, cooked or raw, in salads, desserts, and more. With its pleasantly unique flavor and potential health benefits, jackfruit is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What dishes do you find Jackfruit in?
Jackfruit is incredibly versatile and can be used in a range of dishes. In South and Southeast Asia, it is usually eaten as a snack or dessert when it’s ripe, but it can also be cooked. In Thai cuisine, the fruit is popularly cooked as a curry, boiled with syrup, or stir-fried. In India, the unripe fruit is boiled and used as a meat substitute to create dishes like jackfruit biryani and jackfruit masala. In the Philippines, its green, unripe form is cooked and served in savory dishes like stews and stir-fries. Jackfruit also has many vegan and vegetarian uses; it can be blended into burgers, tacos, and mock pulled pork. No matter how it is prepared, jackfruit is an exotic and delicious addition to any meal!