Pulled jackfruit and other recipes

If there is one foodstuff that has led the vegan food revolution in the UK, it’s got to be jackfruit. Often claimed to have a similar texture to meat-based protein, it has become a staple ingredient of plant-based alternatives to classic street foods from around the world. In this blog, we explore this food phenomenon, especially from an Oriental perspective.

What is jackfruit?

Jackfruit belongs to the same family as fig, mulberry and breadfruit. It originates from the south-west part of India, where it continues to grow in abundance. Nowadays, it is also grown in the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, as well as on the African continent, Brazil, Florida, Hawaii and Australia.

When unripe, it not only has a neutral flavour, but it is also capable of soaking up herbs, spices and other flavourings. This means it can be used to produce plant-based versions of shredded chicken, pulled pork or other meat-based meals.

Furthermore, it is also full of nutrients, including fibre and antioxidants, as well as being rich in vitamins A and C, riboflavin, magnesium, potassium, copper and manganese. This means it is good for your immune system, helping your body fight free radicals and protects you from colds and other illnesses.

It may also prevent cancer, as jackfruit contains phytonutrients such as lignans, isoflavones and saponins, which have anti-cancer properties. It can also boost energy levels, help maintain blood pressure and heart health, support healthy vision, improve skin health, reduces ageing, and enhance bone health.

Cooking with jackfruit

In recent times, jackfruit has become the meat-free ingredient of choice for those seeking a plant-based diet. Similar to tofu, when unripened, it is able to absorb the flavours in which it is cooked without having much flavour of its own.

If you are looking to cook with it, then your obvious option is plain, canned jackfruit. If this is the case, you should first drain it, then cook it until it can be easily shredded in order to create a meat-like consistency.

Our jackfruit recipe ideas

First of all, check out our vegan spin on the classic Chinese pulled pork burger recipe using pulled jackfruit.

For the perfect summer party, why not cook jackfruit with your favourite barbecue sauce? If tacos are your thing, then prepare it with orange juice, avocado and cilantro.

Replacing meat with jackfruit will definitely work in your favourite curry recipe. This ingredient is also ideal for a plant-based take on jerk chicken and dumplings.

Helping you to live a plant-based lifestyle

Here, at Sing Kee Foods, we are aware of the increasing demand for plant-based diets. We also recognise that this does not mean forgetting all about taste. Indeed, this is one of the main reasons behind our commitment to offering delicious recipes using meat-free ingredients.

Check out our website today where you will find an unenviable range of food and drink to inspire you in the kitchen.