Jackfruit: The meatless wonder taking vegan cuisine by storm
Although many of us may not have heard of this fruit yet, it is gaining significant popularity among those on a meatless diet. Let's talk about jackfruit—the fruit of the breadfruit tree, which can weigh up to 110 pounds.
1:46 PM EDT, June 5, 2024
We often say that the creativity of vegan sector chefs knows no bounds. These artists deserve credit not only for their creativity but also for their skill in selling something unconventional. Their latest creation—"meat" from jackfruit—has succeeded perfectly. Today, we are asking what this mysterious fruit is, why it is used as a meat substitute and its health benefits.
Jackfruit, the giant fruit
Jackfruit is an exotic fruit that grows on breadfruit trees, also known as boch bread trees. It thrives in tropical conditions, with the most significant crops in Oceania and Southeast Asia. The fruits are oval-shaped, with dark yellow, tough skin, and typically weigh around 22 pounds. However, it's common to find breadfruit weighing up to five times more.
Inside, the jackfruit is divided into segments, and its sticky, slightly sweet flesh has a texture reminiscent of meat. This characteristic has been utilized in various ways, making it a substitute for pork or chicken. Producers sell this "non-meat" in forms such as vegan sausages and patties, which are then served in dishes like burgers or ramen.
Is jackfruit healthy?
Fans of the vegan diet often highlight its health benefits. Do the nutritional values of jackfruit confirm this? Well, the superiority of any diet is debatable, and discussions on the topic continue. We can say that jackfruit is a healthy fruit worth incorporating into your diet.
Regarding the health benefits of jackfruit, it's worth noting the presence of potassium, which it has even more of than bananas. It also contains other minerals such as iron and zinc and vitamins A, B, and C. Consuming breadfruit provides a solid dose of dietary fiber. However, it should be noted that this exotic fruit is also calorie-dense—there are 94 calories in 100 grams. The question is: is this really that high? After all, a typical chicken breast has around 165 kcal. Since breadfruit is used as a meat substitute, jackfruit seems merely a caloric playfulness...
