Meat made from jackfruit. Could it possibly be a fruit? Get eight mouthwatering recipes and learn everything there is to know about this trendy vegan meat.
People’s desire to eat more plant-based foods has led to a significant increase in sales during the past several years. Beyond and Impossible burgers, as well as more conventional vegan “meats” like tofu, tempeh, and seitan, aren’t the only meaty possibilities, though.
Jackfruit meat is a relatively new addition to western kitchens, grocery shops, and menus, but it has quickly won over customers looking for alternatives to traditional meats. Although, the enormous fruit still retains a certain air of mystery. The term “jackfruit flesh” doesn’t seem to fit. Would a doctor recommend it? Can you describe the flavor? Are you prepared to delve in? There’s a lot to learn.
What is Jackfruit Meat?
Meat substitutes can be made with jackfruit, a tropical fruit. The unripe jackfruit can be used for savory meals such pulled “pork” sandwiches and curries because to its meaty texture.
Use unripe or young jackfruit, which is commonly found in cans of brine or water, while preparing this meat alternative. First, the jackfruit needs to be drained, rinsed, and the tough core and seeds removed before it can be cooked. VegNews. JackfruitCanva2Canva
The sweet when ripe and starchy when unripe flesh of the jack tree fruit has been prized in South and Southeast Asian cuisines for ages, but is a relatively recent addition to the diets of North Americans and Europeans. When a jackfruit is cut open, the fibrous yellow flesh, pods, and seeds are revealed. Jackfruit is used as a meat substitute when young and unripe, but its fleshy pods are delicious when ripe and eaten as a tropical dessert.
Benefits of eating jackfruit
Jackfruit flesh has more protein than other fruits (2.8 grams per cup), and is also a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, potassium, riboflavin, and folic acid, however it falls short of the nutritional density of several other plant-based meat substitutes.
Jackfruit is loaded with anti-inflammatory flavonoids and cancer-fighting lignans, as well as compounds that protect against some malignancies. Jackfruit is commonly used as a substitute for shredded pork or chicken due to its low calorie content (157 per cup).
What about the flavor?
When immature and unripe jackfruit is utilized in savory applications, the flesh has a neutral (not fruity) flavor and readily absorbs marinades and spices. It’s got the meaty, solid feel of pulled pork and pulls apart into strings.
The same goes with shredded jackfruit, which is often used as a chicken substitute. Jackfruit, like tofu, has a mild flavor that makes it a versatile ingredient in dishes like stews and sauces, but few people eat it on its own. It’s a staple in many households, and it goes great in tacos and burritos.
Tips for preparing jackfruit for the table
Investing in a fresh jackfruit can be a long and messy process, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the process through a good lesson before you buy one. From there, you’ll still have to prepare it by boiling or roasting.
Look for canned jackfruit packed in water or brine rather than jackfruit packed in syrup, which will be sweet, if you want to use it as a meat substitute. It’s already sliced up and cooked, so all you have to do is use your hands or a fork to tear apart the pieces until they have the texture of shredded meat.
Pre-shredded varieties are also available from some manufacturers in the refrigerated sections of health food stores like Whole Foods Market. The pre-shredded and pre-seasoned choices are available at both Upton’s and Very Good Butchers.
Here are a few recipes for Jackfruit Meat:
- Jackfruit Gyross,
It would be a shame if you passed up this vegan alternative to a traditional Greek dish.
- Vegan BBQ pulled jackfruit sliders with a smoky twist.
Check. Quick and simple barbeque sauce recipe? Check. Jackfruit that’s soft, fruity, and savory? There are no glaring errors. See that everything is in order.
- Corned Jackfruit Reubens with Swiss Cheese.
Pickles on Rye Bread Splurge on the finest rye bread and ‘kraut for this delicious take on a hearty deli classic.
- Jackfruit Philly Cheesesteaks
If that weren’t enough to pique your interest, this recipe also includes instructions for making a creamy cashew cheese sauce that pairs wonderfully with the robust jackfruit.
- Caribbean Black Bean and Mango Wraps with Jamaican Jerk Jackfruit
This wrap will take you away with its tropical flavors, including the black beans for added protein and the mango for bursts of sweetness.
- Easily Prepared Jackfruit Tacos
Since Taco Tuesday is not bound by the calendar, you can enjoy this dish for a speedy and wonderful meal any day of the week.
- Jackfruit Sabzi
Pieces of jackfruit cooked in a fragrant, thick sauce with Punjabi spices make the perfect dish for a mini-vacation.
- Jackfruit Curry
This jackfruit dish in a coconut cream sauce is a delicious and cozy option for a quick weeknight meal.
