Jackfruit is a tropical fruit native to India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It is an important part of many regional cuisines throughout Southeast Asia, especially in vegetarian dishes.
With its sweet somewhat nutty flavor, jack has become a popular meat substitute in vegan cooking. It is used in desserts, curries and even in savory dishes. But what does jackfruit actually taste like?
Table of Contents
Physical appearance.
Jackfruit is an oval-shaped, green fruit with a bumpy texture. Its outer skin is thick and leathery, ranging in color from light yellow-green to dark brown.
The flesh of the jackfruit can range in color from white to creamy yellow, depending on ripeness. Inside the fruit are numerous edible seeds encased in sticky, sweet flesh.
What Does Jackfruit Taste Like?
Jackfruit has a distinctive taste that is both sweet and slightly nutty. Its scent is similar to that of pineapples and bananas, with a hint of mango or apple thrown in for good measure. The flesh of the fruit can be described as chewy, yet tender and juicy.
Texture.
The texture of jackfruit is often compared to that of a banana or mango. Unripe jackfruit has a crunchier texture, while ripe fruit will be softer and more custard-like in consistency.
Its sticky flesh clings to the seeds found inside the fruit, making it easy to scoop out with a spoon when the fruit is ripe.
The seeds of the jackfruit are edible and have a nutty flavor similar to that of chestnuts. While they may be eaten raw, they are often boiled or roasted in order to bring out their full flavor.
What does jackfruit taste like when cooked?
When cooked, jackfruit has a meaty texture that is similar to pulled pork or chicken. It absorbs the flavors of the spices and sauces it is cooked with, making it an incredibly versatile ingredient in vegan and vegetarian cooking.
Its sweet flavor complements spicy dishes such as curries or stews, while its nutty taste pairs nicely with sweet dishes. Jackfruit can be cooked in a variety of ways, from baking and steaming to frying and grilling.
What does canned jackfruit taste like?
Canned jackfruit usually has a slightly acidic flavor due to the brine it is packed in and a texture that is similar to artichoke hearts.
The flavor of canned jackfruit can be enhanced with seasonings or sauces, making it a great meat substitute for vegan dishes. Its mild taste helps it take on the flavors of whatever dish it is cooked in.
What does ripe jackfruit taste like?
Ripe jackfruit has a sweet flavor, similar to that of overripe bananas. Its flesh is creamy and custard-like in consistency, it is perfect for desserts such as ice cream or smooth.
Ripe jackfruit can be used in savory dishes, such as curries or stews, where its sweet flavor can balance out the spiciness of other ingredients.
What does dried jackfruit taste like?
Dried jackfruit has a sweet and nutty flavor, similar to that of dates. Its texture is chewy and slightly crunchy, making it fun to eat as a snack or topping for salads and desserts.
Dried jackfruit can also be used in savory dishes such as curries or stir-fries, where its sweetness will balance out the spiciness of other ingredients.
Does jackfruit really taste like meat?
The answer is yes and no. Some people say that it has a similar texture to pulled pork or chicken, but the taste is quite different from meat. It’s very sweet and has a unique flavor that can’t be replicated with other ingredients. The fruit also typically contains more moisture than meat, so it’s not as dense in texture.
Does jackfruit taste better than durian?
That depends on your personal preference. Both fruits have a strong, sweet flavor that can be an acquired taste, but they do have some differences.
Durian is known for its pungent smell and creamy texture, while jackfruit has a sweeter flavor and more of a stringy texture.
How to make jackfruit taste like meat.
Cooking jackfruit with certain seasonings and spices can give it a meat-like flavor. Try marinating the fruit in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and cumin before cooking it.
You can also add some thin slices of bell peppers or mushrooms to give it more of a meaty texture.
Finally, you can cook the jackfruit in a skillet over medium heat until it’s golden brown and crisp. Serve it with your favorite barbecue sauce for an even better flavor!
Culinary Applications.
Jackfruit can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Unripe jack is often cooked with spices and coconut milk as part of vegetarian or vegan curries, while ripe fruit can be used in desserts like ice cream or milkshakes.
It can also be added to smoothies for a tropical twist. Jackfruit is also becoming an increasingly popular vegan alternative to pulled pork or chicken, as it absorbs the flavors of whatever marinades and sauces are used with it.
Nutritional Benefits.
Jackfruit is low in calories but high in nutrients and vitamins including Vitamin A, C, B6, magnesium and potassium. It is also rich in dietary fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer and aids in digestion.
Jackfruit is an excellent source of antioxidants, which helps to protect our cells from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Additionally, jackfruit contains compounds that may help to reduce inflammation in the body and reduce blood sugar levels.
All of these factors make jackfruit an incredibly nutritious and healthful snack or meal addition.
FAQs
How do I prepare jackfruit?
Unripe jackfruit can be boiled or steamed and seasoned with spices. Ripe jackfruit can be eaten raw or added to desserts or smoothies. It can also be used as a vegan meat substitute by marinating it in sauces and seasonings of your choice.
How should I store jackfruit?
Unripe jackfruit can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Ripe jackfruit should be refrigerated and used within a few days. If you don’t plan on consuming it immediately, it can also be frozen for future use.
Are there different varieties of jackfruit?
Yes! There are many varieties of jackfruit, ranging in size from small to very large. Some common types include the dwarf variety and the seedless variety. Different varieties may have slightly different flavors and textures.
Are jackfruits healthy?
Yes! Jackfruit is high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-dense snack or meal addition. It is low in calories but packed with flavor and nutritional benefits. Additionally, jackfruit contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the body and lower blood sugar levels.
Final thoughtsÂ
Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that can be enjoyed both sweet and savory. Its distinct flavor and texture make it a versatile ingredient to incorporate into meals, desserts, smoothies, and more.
It is low in calories but high in nutrients and vitamins, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their overall health benefits.
Plus, its mild flavor makes it perfect for absorbing other flavors and marinades, making it an ideal vegan alternative to pulled pork or chicken.
Pulled Jackfruit recipe
Enjoy this vegan-friendly alternative to pulled pork! Jackfruit is marinated in a smoky and sweet BBQ sauce, then cooked to crispy perfection. Perfect for topping tacos, burgers, salads or simply served with rice and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 can of jackfruit (in brine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Drain the jackfruit and rinse off any brine residue. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the jackfruit and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, stir together BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder and onion powder. Pour into the skillet with the jackfruit and stir to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and coated the jackfruit.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve warm over tacos, burgers, salads or simply enjoy with rice and vegetables. Enjoy!
