Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that is widely celebrated for its versatility. One of the most popular ways to enjoy jackfruit is by using it as a meat substitute in savoury dishes, such as tacos, sandwiches, or stir-fries. Its fibrous texture allows it to mimic the mouthfeel of shredded meat, providing a satisfying and hearty experience.
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However, cutting this giant fruit properly is essential for preparing delicious meals. In this article, we will explore how to cut jackfruit easily and share tips on how to remove the stickiness from your hands afterwards.
Easy Tips And Tricks To Cut Sticky Jackfruit
Apply Oil On Your Hands And Knife
One of the easiest ways to deal with sticky jackfruit is by applying oil. Before you start cutting, rub a small amount of oil (such as vegetable oil or coconut oil) on your hands and the knife you’ll be using. The oil acts as a protective barrier, preventing the sticky latex from sticking to your skin and cutting tools. Make sure to coat your hands and the knife blade thoroughly to avoid any mess during the process.
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Use Newspaper, Parchment Paper Or Wax Paper
Laying down newspaper, parchment paper, or wax paper on your cutting surface is another smart trick. This helps to keep your work area clean and catch any latex that might drip out while cutting the jackfruit. Once you’re done, simply discard the paper, and your cutting board or table will remain free of stickiness. It’s a quick and easy way to manage the mess.
Cut Into Sections
Instead of trying to cut the entire jackfruit at once, cut it into manageable sections. Start by cutting the jackfruit in half. Then, cut those halves into quarters or smaller sections, depending on the size of the fruit. This will make it easier to handle and reduce the amount of sticky latex that gets released all at once.
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Remove The Core First
Once you’ve cut the jackfruit into sections, remove the core. The core is the hardest part of the jackfruit and contains most of the sticky latex. By removing the core first, you’ll minimise the amount of latex that spreads to other parts of the fruit. Use your oiled knife to carefully cut out the core from each section.
Extract The Fruit Bulbs
After the core is removed, you can now focus on extracting the fruit bulbs. Jackfruit is made up of several individual bulbs, each containing a seed. Use your fingers to pull apart the bulbs from the surrounding fibrous material. Since your hands are coated with oil, the sticky latex won’t adhere to your skin, making it much easier to work with.
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Cleaning Up After Cutting Sticky Jackfruit
After cutting the sticky jackfruit, you might find that your hands are left messy and sticky. While removing this stickiness can be tricky, here are some effective methods you can try.
Use Oil
Apply more oil to your hands and tools. Wipe with a paper towel to loosen the latex, then wash with soap and water. The oil helps break down the stickiness easily.
Rubbing Alcohol
Dab some rubbing alcohol onto a cloth or paper towel. Wipe your hands and tools, then rinse with soap and water. This helps dissolve the latex for quick cleanup.
Lemon Juice
Rub lemon juice on sticky areas. The acidity helps break down the latex. Rinse with warm water afterwards. It works well for both hands and cutting tools.
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Vinegar Solution
Soak your hands or tools in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for a few minutes. Scrub with soap and warm water. This helps loosen and remove the latex.
Soap And Warm Water
Use soap and warm water to scrub off the latex. It may take a little effort, but warm water helps soften the stickiness for easier cleaning.