What is Jackfruit?
Jackfruit is a large tropical fruit which is green and spiky on the outside, yellow on the inside and has a sweet taste. It is a tree borne fruit which can grow up to 35kg in size and is used in cooking as an alternative to meat.
Is it healthy?
Yes it is very healthy, a great energy boaster and is loaded with a wide range of vitamins such as Vitamin C and A, calcium, folic acid, potassium, iron, thiamin (a water soluble vitamin B), riboflavin (vitamin B2), zinc, sodium, niacin (a form of vitamin B3), complex B and B6 vitamins.
This delicious food contains phytonutrient (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) properties such as anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, and anti-ulcer properties and also minerals; fiber, protein with minimal fat, low and cholesterol; is antibacterial, antiviral and assists in supporting a strong immune system.
It may be more convenient to purchase Jackfruit in a can (I use Ceres organic young jackfruit) if you cannot find it fresh (which I don't believe you can in New Zealand), then flavour it with different sauces like bbq, chilli and lime or teriyaki sauce. Wrap it up in tortillas, fill pita breads, eat it with crunchy taco shells, nacho chips, make jackfruit chips, burgers and stews. Team it with avocado, potatoes and curry. Watch this space for recipes!
Ripe Jackfruit
Jackfruit growing on a tree
Jackfruit Burger
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