About Jackfruit
Jackfruit, the ancient fruit is a heart-ahealthy and nutritious fruit, the scientific name of is “Artocarpus heterophyllus.” It is native to South and South East Asia. Jackfruit is the fruit of a tropical tree native to Asia, Africa and america, many farmers new cultivate it in many parts of the world including Australia, Brazil. Jackfruit has been gaining popularity in the United States for several years. The fruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, sometimes weighing up to 40 pounds. Jackfruit has been a staple in the diets of many Asian cultures, celebrated not only for its culinary versatility but also for its impressive nutritional profile. Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that is used in a variety of culinary applications while raw, and when ripe, jackfruit is delicious to eat.
But the test of jackfruit on the tree is beautiful. When the jackfruit ripens, or begins to ripen, it emits a lovely sweet aroma. But the taste and sweetness of jackfruit depends on how ripe the jackfruit is. When the jackfruit is ripe, the soft fleshy round part inside it, i.e., Which contains the jackfruit seeds, is called the jackfruit pod.
What are the Types of Jackfruit
Jackfruit is available in several varieties, which are generally classified based on their texture, flavor and intended use. The two main types of jackfruit are :
- Firm Jackfruit :
Characteristics : The flesh is firm, crisp and less sticky, giving of a great aroma when cooked. It has a crunchy texture and is often preferred for its ease of handling and use.
Uses : This type is usually eaten fresh as a fruit. It has also become popular for drying or making chips due to its firm texture.
2. Soft Jackfruit :
Characteristics : Flesh is soft, juicy and more aromatic. It tends to be sticky and more fibrous than the firm type.
Uses : This type is usually eaten fresh and is preferred for making sweets, jams and preserves due to its softer and more malleable texture.
Within these two main categories, jackfruit is cultivated by numerous nations throughout the world, especially in the tropics. Here are descriptions of some notable jackfruit species :
Black Gold : Known for small fruit size and firm, sweet and aromatic flesh. Jackfruit has rich taste.
Golden Nugget : Known for small fruit with dense and sweet, firm flesh. It is often enjoyed fresh or dried.
Honey Gold : Its large jackfruit shape and very sweet, crisp flesh are aromatic. It has a sweet, honey-like flavor and is often eaten fresh.
Dang Rasimi : A popular Thai variety with firm and aromatic meat. It is known for its large size and high yield.
Champa : An Indian variety with soft, sweet flesh. It is often used in traditional desserts and preserves. The size of this type of jackfruit is both small and large. Champa jackfruit is sweet tasting, aromatic and famous for its soft sweet flesh.
Cochin : Curries usually in India, soft and fibrous meat and sweet in nature.
These varieties differ in terms of sweetness, texture, size and even color, world famous for different tastes and culinary uses.
Amount of Vitamins and Minerals in Jackfruit
Jackfruit is a nutritious fruit that provides various vitamins and minerals. 100 grams of ripe jackfruit typically contains the following nutrients :
Vitamins :
Vitamin A : About 110 IU Vitamin B1 : (Thiamine) 0.105 mg Vitamin B2 : (Riboflavin) :0.055 mg
Vitamin B3 : (Niacin) 0.92 mg Vitamin B6 : (Pyridoxine) 0.329 mg Folate B9 : 24 ยตg
Vitamin C : About 13.7/13.8 mg
Minerals :
Calcium : 24 mg Potassium : 448 mg Magnesium : 29 mg Phosphorus : 21 mg
Sodium : 3 mg Copper : 0.187 mg Manganese : 0.043 mg Iron : 0.23 mg
Zinc : 0.13 mg
These values may vary slightly depending on the specific variety and maturity of the jackfruit. Additionally, ripe jackfruit provides dietary fiber, a good source of carbohydrates and a small amount of protein.
Jackfruit Seeds
Jackfruit seeds are a great source of protein and fiber. They also contain a chemical that interferes with digestion. Cooked jackfruit seeds are used in various types of curries, besides, jackfruit seeds taste great when eaten on fire. Never eat jackfruit seeds raw, enjoy them roasted or boiled if you prefer.
Benefits of Jackfruit
The nutritional value of jackfruit may help reduce your risk for a variety of health conditions, including.
Jackfruit is a good source of fiber, so eating ripe jackfruit improves bowel movements. Jackfruit extract helps control blood sugar in diabetic patients. In addition, prevention of ulcers, diabetes, heart disease, skin, cholesterol problems, cancer, osteoporosis.
Risk of Eating Jackfruit
Some people may need to limit or avoid jackfruit, but jackfruit is safe for most people. People with diabetes, avoid jackfruit if you are allergic to jackfruit. Besides, if you eat jackfruit, try to eat jackfruit regularly.