Are you tired of the same old fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges? Well, have no fear because jackfruit is here! This peculiar fruit is a true delight for those who love exotic and unique flavours. Native to the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, jackfruit is the largest fruit that grows on a tree. It's a spiky, green fruit that can weigh up to 100 pounds and is loaded with numerous health benefits. This versatile fruit can be eaten ripe or unripe and is used in a variety of sweet and savoury dishes.
Here are some of the health benefits of jackfruit:
High In Fibre: Jackfruit is an excellent source of fibre, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health. Fibre can also help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control.
Rich In Vitamins And Minerals: Jackfruit is packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These vitamins and minerals help support a healthy immune system, improve bone health, and regulate blood pressure.
May Improve Insulin Sensitivity: Studies suggest that jackfruit may help improve insulin sensitivity, which can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
May Have Anti-Cancer Properties: Jackfruit contains compounds called phytochemicals, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties in lab studies.
May Promote Skin Health: Jackfruit is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and can help improve skin elasticity.
But that's not all! From curries to mouth-watering desserts, jackfruit can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. So, what are you waiting for? Here are the top seven jackfruit dishes you can try this season:
Biryani
Jackfruit biryani is the ultimate fusion dish. It's like the love child of tropical fruit and aromatic spices that blend together to create a flavour bomb that will leave you wanting more. The tender jackfruit melds with the fluffy rice, infused with the earthy flavours of cumin, turmeric, and coriander, making every bite a new adventure. It's a dish that brings people together, and after you have relished the biryani, you will not miss meat at all.
Curry
Jackfruit curry is a delicious surprise in a bowl. It has warm, comforting flavours, and the tender jackfruit pieces just melt in your mouth. The curry sauce is a fragrant blend of spices, coconut milk, and tomato that will make your taste buds dance the cha-cha. It's a dish that proves that vegan food can be just as delicious as any meat-based curry, and it's sure to impress even the most carnivorous of eaters.
Kofta
Move over meatballs—it's time to try jackfruit kofta! These vegan balls of delight are made with the oh-so-trendy jackfruit, which is like the lovechild of a pineapple and a durian. The jackfruit kofta is a party in your mouth, with a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior bursting with Indian spices. Dip it in some mint chutney, and you'll be transported to Nirvana. It's the perfect way to show your meat-eating friends that plant-based food can be just as tasty as the real thing.
Chutney
Move over mango chutney, it's time for jackfruit chutney to shine! This tropical delight is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, with chunks of jackfruit simmered in a tangy blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices. It's like a flavour explosion in your mouth, with each bite taking you on a journey through the vibrant streets of South India. Spread it on toast, use it as a dip, or slather it on your favourite curry for an extra kick of flavour.
Payasam
This creamy dessert is made with tropical jackfruit, giving it a unique and delicious flavour that will transport your taste buds straight to Kerala. The jackfruit is blended with coconut milk, cardamom, and jaggery, creating a sweet and indulgent treat that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. It's the perfect way to end a meal, or just to indulge in a little bit of quirky goodness whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Jackfruit Seeds Bharta
This quirky dish is made with boiled jackfruit seeds, mashed with spices, and served as a side dish. It's a unique twist on traditional mashed potatoes, with a nutty and slightly sweet flavour that will leave your taste buds begging for more. It's the perfect accompaniment to a spicy curry or served on its own as a hearty vegetarian dish. So next time you're cooking with jackfruit, don't forget to save the seeds and try this quirky and delicious dish!
Chips
These crispy delights are made from thinly sliced jackfruit and seasoned with salt and turmeric for a zesty twist on a classic snack. Each chip is bursting with tropical flavour, making it the perfect snack to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're snacking on them at work, on a road trip, or just lounging at home, jackfruit chips are a delicious and quirky snack to enjoy!
In conclusion, jackfruit is a nutritious fruit that can provide numerous health benefits. Whether eaten fresh, cooked, or as a meat substitute, incorporating jackfruit into your diet is a great way to support your overall health and well-being.