Jackfruit – prickly and full of potential

The roots of the jackfruit

The spiky tree fruit known in German as ‘Jackfrucht’ originates from the tropics – more specifically from South and South-East Asia – where it has been cultivated for centuries. Jackfruit grows on trees belonging to the mulberry family. These trees can reach an impressive height of up to 20 metres and are an integral part of agricultural land in their countries of origin.

The fruits grow directly on the trunk or very thick branches of the tree – otherwise it would be almost impossible to support the astonishing weight of the jackfruit: the fruits can weigh up to 50 kilograms and grow to a length of around 90 centimetres. Unsurprisingly, this makes them the world’s largest tree fruit.

Once the skin is removed, both the flesh and the seeds can be eaten. The size of the fruit and the high yield have always made it a valuable source of food.

Nutritional profile: Healthy and nutrient-rich

The fact that it has a long tradition as a foodstuff is not without reason; this is primarily because jackfruit is highly versatile and, at the same time, very nutritious. It offers a wealth of valuable nutrients that are important for a healthy diet, such as:

• Fibre

• Vitamin C

• Potassium

• Carotenoids

…as well as other nutrients such as B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and a few others.

The use of jackfruit as a foodstuff

Jackfruit can be used both when unripe and when ripe. In the tropics, it is traditionally eaten more often in its ripe form. The ripe pieces of jackfruit have an aromatic, sweet flavour and are often used in desserts, chutneys or sweet snacks. For savoury dishes, the unripe flesh is used in curries or stews, for example – but it is also very well suited to Deep-frying. It has very little flavour of its own and its aroma is somewhat reminiscent of artichokes.

Even jackfruit seeds are used in a variety of ways in cooking. They, too, are nutritious and their texture and flavour can be enhanced by boiling, steaming or roasting. In some regions, the dried and roasted seeds are also ground and used as flour.

Jackfruit as a modern meat substitute

Thanks to a number of unique characteristics, the tropical jackfruit has become established in recent years as a source for meat substitutes. The unripe flesh has a fibrous texture, which naturally resembles the consistency of meat. Its fairly neutral flavour can be adapted almost any way you like using spices. Unripe jackfruit also absorbs marinades very well. This makes it perfect for conjuring up tasty meat-free products that can be used in a variety of ways.

The fact that jackfruit does not first require labour-intensive processing to resemble the texture of meat is a key factor in its excellent suitability as a meat substitute. It facilitates the production of vegan meat alternatives that do not require Food allergens such as Soya or gluten-free. Ultimately, whether vegan or not, the most important thing is that it tastes good!

How are jackfruit-based meat-free products made?

There are various methods for preparing the fruit flesh. What steps are involved before you can enjoy this delicious treat? For example, the following:

• Preparation: The unripe jackfruit is peeled and the seeds removed, and the unripe flesh is cut into the desired shape. The pieces are then usually finished off by marinating or seasoning.

• A selection of cooking techniques: Depending on the final form the product is to take, the jackfruit is then, for example, boiled, braised, steamed or pan-fried. Cooking intensifies the flavors and gives the jackfruit flesh its desired consistency. This step is crucial for achieving the right mouthfeel in the meat substitute.
  

  If you’re still missing the right equipment for food processing:

• Packaging and Distribution: The finished products must be packaged hygienically and to the correct specifications – for example, in tins, jars or vacuum-sealed packaging. Appropriate transport packaging is also important to ensure that Jackfucht ultimately proves itself as a viable meat alternative.

A wide range of products as meat alternatives

The versatility of jackfruit is evident in the wide variety of dishes in which it can be used, bringing its flavour and meat-like texture to the table. It is particularly popular, for example, in the following ways:

• Pulled pork: Its stringy texture makes it ideal for vegan pulled pork served in tacos, sandwiches or wraps.

• Curry dishes: In curries, jackfruit products provide a hearty, meat-like component – just as they do when used in goulash.

• Pan-fried dish: Pan-fried strips of meat are not only delicious served with vegetables, but also make a crisp topping for fresh salads, for example.

In general, it is clear that jackfruit is becoming increasingly popular as a meat substitute. Food manufacturers and vegan restaurants are increasingly offering jackfruit-based products, which will see their availability and popularity continue to grow in the future. 

Jackfruit as a promising meat substitute

Jackfruit is a versatile and healthy alternative to meat. With its high nutritional value, naturally meat-like texture and environmental benefits, it has the potential to, in terms of the The Future of Food to play a tasty role.

Are you keen to give it a go but still need the right equipment for food processing? Our range has everything you could possibly need and offers a wide selection of equipment required to produce food products of the highest quality. With Ehlert GmbH, you’re partnering with a comprehensive supply chain specialist that also boasts 100 years of experience.