The jackfruit, a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, is often mistaken for a more familiar fruit, the mit. Jackfruit, also known as “sake” in Vietnamese, has a unique taste and texture that sets it apart from other fruits. While it may resemble mit in appearance, especially to those unfamiliar with it, its culinary applications are distinct.
A Mit Look-Alike with a Distinct Flavor
Jackfruit, or sake, has a mild, pleasant flavor and is commonly used in everyday cooking. In Vietnam, the tree is prevalent in the southwestern provinces. The fruit has a rough, green exterior, and its shape is similar to that of an unripe mit. However, unlike mit, jackfruit doesn’t have segments or a strong aroma. Its flesh is uniformly white, slightly chewy, and has a nutty flavor, often likened to potatoes or chestnuts.
Some varieties of jackfruit have seeds, while others are seedless. Nutritionally, jackfruit is a good source of fiber and protein, low in fat, and easy to digest. It is often considered a starchy food and used as a vegetable rather than a dessert fruit like mit.
In southern Vietnam, jackfruit dishes are a common feature on dining tables. One of the most popular preparations is fried jackfruit. The fruit is peeled, cut into bite-sized pieces, battered, and fried until golden brown. These crispy treats can be enjoyed with chili sauce or tossed with cheese powder or sour plum salt, rivaling the allure of French fries. Jackfruit is also used in savory stews, sweet soups, and baked goods, offering versatility in both sweet and savory applications.
Compared to mit, jackfruit is significantly smaller, typically weighing between 1-2 kg even when fully ripe, while a mature mit can reach several dozen kilograms. The spikes on a jackfruit are also softer and less pronounced than those on a mature mit, whose spikes become larger and sharper with age. Additionally, the jackfruit and mit trees have distinct appearances, with mit trees having small, shiny leaves, while jackfruit trees boast larger, more distinct leaves.
Delicious Dishes Featuring Jackfruit
Jackfruit is an incredibly versatile ingredient, and here are some mouthwatering dishes you can create with it:
- Fried Jackfruit Crisps
Peel the jackfruit and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Soak the pieces in water to remove the excess gum. Drain and pat dry. Optionally, you can marinate the jackfruit pieces in a mixture of sugar and salt to enhance their flavor.
Prepare a batter by mixing the crispy powder with water, adding rice flour for extra crispness and a pinch of turmeric for a beautiful golden color. Heat oil in a pan, dip the jackfruit pieces in the batter, and fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain the excess oil and serve with your choice of seasoning, such as cheese powder or sour plum salt.
- Jackfruit and Bone Soup
Jackfruit can be cooked in a soup, similar to how potatoes or taro are used. Simmer the bones until tender. Cut the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces and soak them in water to retain their white color. Add the jackfruit to the soup and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Season to taste and serve when the jackfruit is tender.
- Jackfruit Salad (Gỏi)
Peel and cut the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces. Blanch the jackfruit in boiling water briefly, then rinse in cold water to stop the cooking process. Handle the fruit gently to avoid breaking it apart. In a large bowl, combine the jackfruit with cooked shrimp, pork, chopped rau răm (Vietnamese coriander), and a dressing made of fish sauce, garlic, and chili. Mix well and serve on a platter.
Jackfruit, or sake, may resemble mit on the outside, but its flavor and culinary uses are distinct. With its versatility and unique taste, jackfruit can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. So, get creative and impress your family with some tasty jackfruit treats!
The Golden Tree: Unveiling Nature’s Hidden Treasures in Vietnam.
This particular tree has an intriguing ability to attract gold particles onto its leaves, making it a subject of fascination for those with an interest in mineral prospecting.
Dengue Fever Alert: An Unforeseen Epidemic, Uncontrollable and Unpredictable
“The current situation regarding dengue fever is concerning as it has veered off predictable paths. The disease is no longer seasonal or cyclical in nature, which poses new challenges and demands heightened vigilance.”
Does Eating Mangos, Apricots, and Jackfruits Cause “Internal Heat”, and Why Do Many People Break Out After Indulging in These Fruits?
The age-old question of whether consuming fruits such as mangoes, apricots, and jackfruits can lead to internal heat and acne has been a topic of much debate. Let’s delve into the facts and uncover the truth behind these so-called “hot” fruits.
Uncover the Island with a Gem-like Name, a 200km-Distance from Hanoi, that Charms Visitors with its Picture-Perfect Scenery.
Nestled in Quang Ninh, this island is a hidden gem amidst the vast sea. With its majestic natural beauty and untouched, serene landscapes, it is truly a breathtaking escape.
10 Pristine Central Coastal Beaches to Discover This Summer
“Discover the top 10 pristine beaches along the Central Coast, boasting crystal clear waters, expansive sandy shores, and stunning landscapes. These hidden gems offer a peaceful escape from the crowds, making them ideal destinations for a memorable summer getaway in 2025.”
