What is Jackfruit?

What is Jackfruit?

Jackfruit is an eye-catching fruit—large, green, and spiky. It's so massive that it can weigh over 100 pounds, though you're more likely to find smaller fruits weighing around 10 pounds or a foot long. This giant fruit belongs to the breadfruit family and is hard to miss.

This tropical fruit thrives in various Asian countries, especially in India, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia. Although it has been a culinary staple for centuries, it has recently gained popularity in the West, especially in vegetarian dishes.

The jackfruit's outer layer is tough and spiky, almost like armor. Inside, you'll find soft, yellowish pods filled with a delicious flesh. However, each pod contains a hard seed you should avoid. The fruit's thick skin is inedible, and if you're allergic to latex, it's best to skip the jackfruit as it contains natural latex.

Where to Find Jackfruit

Jackfruit is available both fresh and canned. Canned jackfruit is more commonly found, pre-cleaned, and ready for cooking. It is stored in brine, which helps tenderize it and makes it easier to use in recipes. As vegan ingredients become more widely available, you’ll likely find canned jackfruit in your local grocery store, usually in the international or tropical produce section.

If you can't find it there, specialty markets or Asian grocery stores are your next best bet. These stores often carry multiple brands of canned jackfruit, alongside fresh options. You may also encounter jackfruit canned in a sweet syrup, perfect for topping desserts like ice cream or enjoying straight from the can.

What Does Jackfruit Taste Like?

When unripe, typically labeled as 'young' or 'green,' jackfruit has a mild, neutral flavor, making it ideal for savory dishes. As it ripens, it becomes intensely sweet with a flavor reminiscent of mango and banana, accompanied by a strong fruity aroma with a hint of pineapple.

Ripe jackfruit may not be the best choice for savory dishes like carnitas on nachos, but it shines in tropical desserts, particularly dairy-based ones like custard. It also makes a sweet addition to smoothies, adding a touch of tropical flavor and extra sweetness. On top of that, it's packed with potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, making it a perfect way to kickstart your morning.

Why Is Jackfruit Used as a Meat Substitute?

Jackfruit is widely used as a meat substitute, thanks to its unique texture. When cooked, it takes on the appearance and feel of shredded meats such as pork or chicken. It’s particularly great at absorbing flavors when simmered in sauces, making it ideal for vegan pulled pork sandwiches or chicken tinga tacos.

Get the recipe: Jackfruit Pulled "Pork"

Jackfruit has a mild, savory flavor with a slight saltiness that pairs well with most sauces and seasonings. Its subtle taste won’t overpower the dish, making it a versatile addition to any recipe.

How to Prepare Fresh Jackfruit

Fresh jackfruit is a real treat, but breaking it down can be a challenge. If you're up for the task and confident with your knife skills, it’s worth the effort. The skin is incredibly tough, so you'll need a sturdy knife, a large cutting board, and ample space. To keep the cutting board in place and avoid accidents, dampen a towel or cloth and place it underneath.

Before you begin, put on a pair of disposable gloves since the jackfruit can be sticky. Cut the jackfruit in half lengthwise, which might take a few tries. If your knife starts to stick because of the sap, rub the blade with a bit of vegetable oil to make the cuts smoother.

Once the jackfruit is halved, remove each pod and discard the seeds. Keep the pods and throw away the seeds. Once all the pods are extracted, you're good to go! Use them right away, or store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Ways to Use Jackfruit

Jackfruit shines in both sweet and savory dishes, offering plenty of opportunities to get creative. If you have a ripe, fresh jackfruit, it’s perfect for desserts. Its tropical flavor pairs wonderfully with dairy and creamy ingredients like coconut milk. Try adding it to custards, ice creams, or even transforming panna cotta, crème brûlée, or pudding with a touch of jackfruit puree for a tropical twist.

Green or unripe jackfruit, along with the canned variety, are better suited for savory dishes. It makes an excellent substitute for shredded meat, particularly chicken or pork, so you can easily swap it into your favorite meat-based recipes. It works especially well in smoky barbecue pulled pork sandwiches, satisfying both vegans and meat lovers, or in tangy jackfruit tacos.