Native to the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, the jackfruit holds the title of the largest tree-borne fruit on Earth. These green, spiky behemoths can weigh anywhere from 10 to 50 pounds, with some exceptional specimens tipping the scales at over 100 pounds.
Beyond its impressive size, jackfruit
boasts a unique flavor profile. The ripe fruit has a sweet, tropical taste
reminiscent of a blend of mango, banana, and pineapple. In contrast, the unripe
flesh is starchy and mild, making it a popular plant-based substitute for
pulled pork or chicken in savory dishes. Even the giant seeds are edible; they
can be boiled and eaten, with a flavor and texture similar to potatoes.
Yesterday, Desiree and I spotted—and
then purchased—a fifteen-pound jackfruit while grocery shopping. It’s a monster
compared to apples and oranges, but I’m not going to let that intimidate me.
“We can cut it open next year,” I suggested.
As it happens, today is next year,
but Desiree wants to wait a bit. More on that later.
Happy New Year!
—Mitchell Hegman
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