Many people are unaware that jackfruit is often ripened using harmful chemicals, a practice that has caused confusion among consumers. Traditional ripening methods such as staking, sun-drying, lime application, and fermentation are being replaced by the use of toxic chemicals, primarily from China, to accelerate the ripening process. This results in fruit that ripens faster and appears more attractive, ready for sale the very next day.
However, it is important to learn how to select naturally ripened jackfruit to ensure you are getting the sweetest and juiciest fruit. Here are some tips to help you choose the best jackfruit every time:
1. Tap the Fruit
A ripe jackfruit will feel heavy, and when tapped gently, it should produce a dull thud, almost like a “boink” sound. This indicates that the flesh is sweet and juicy.
Check the Sound
2. Shape
Look for jackfruits with a uniform shape and no indentations or narrow spots. These imperfections may suggest the presence of worms, hardness, or excessive fiber, which can affect the overall quality of the fruit.
3. Spines
Pay attention to the spines of the jackfruit. A ripe and delicious one will have wide-open or cracked spines that are evenly spaced, not too long or sharp, and generally more spread out. This is a good indicator of the fruit’s maturity and flavor.
4. Skin Softness
Gently press the skin of the jackfruit with your thumb. If it yields slightly and feels soft, it is likely ripe. Unripe jackfruit will have firm skin, and the spines will also feel stiff and rigid.
5. Stem
Look for a stem that is approximately 0.5 cm wide, still green, and not wilted. This is different from choosing a pineapple, where a wider stem is preferred. A jackfruit with a healthy stem is a good indicator of its freshness.
6. Jackfruit Arils
Ripe jackfruit arils are typically smaller, with a bright yellow or orange color, although paler than the “wet” variety. They have a distinctive aroma and large seeds inside. Additionally, the arils of a ripe jackfruit will cling to the stem like a bunch of grapes, creating an appealing presentation.
Furthermore, a delicious jackfruit will usually have at least ten large arils or at least 20 small, flat arils per fruit, ensuring a generous amount of sweet, edible fruit.
By following these tips, you’ll become an expert at selecting naturally ripened jackfruit, ensuring a sweet and juicy experience every time. You won’t need to rely on the seller’s recommendations as you’ll have the knowledge to choose the best fruit.
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