How to ripen jackfruit quickly? How to choose a ripe and tasty jackfruit? These are common questions surrounding this tropical fruit. To answer these queries, let’s explore some tips on ripening jackfruit, as well as methods for selecting and cutting it efficiently.
1. Ripening Jackfruit Quickly
Sun Exposure
Expose jackfruit to sunlight
If you’ve picked a jackfruit that seems unripe, with tight, unopened bulbs, try placing it in direct sunlight for 1-2 days to speed up the ripening process.
Nailing
Nailing method for jackfruit
To hasten the ripening process, try the nailing method. Here’s how it’s done:
To check if the jackfruit is ripe, knock on the stick; if it sounds hollow and feels soft when pressed, it’s ready.
Lime Application
Applying lime to jackfruit
To test the ripeness of a jackfruit, cut into its shoulder. If it’s unripe, apply a layer of lime to draw out the latex. After some time, the bulbs will soften, and a sweet aroma will indicate ripeness.
Natural Ripening
Natural ripening of jackfruit
Coat the stem end of the jackfruit with lime and let it ripen naturally in a shaded area. This process typically takes 2-5 days, depending on environmental conditions.
Note: When using this method, ensure the jackfruit is kept out of direct sunlight.
2. Choosing the Right Jackfruit
To select a ripe and chemically untreated jackfruit, consider the following tips:
Taste Test
Taste-testing jackfruit
A ripe, naturally ripened jackfruit will taste sweet and nutty. Chemically treated jackfruit, on the other hand, will have a bland, slightly bitter taste.
Observing the Latex
Naturally ripened jackfruit tends to have minimal or no latex when cut open, whereas chemically treated jackfruit will release a white latex from its flesh.
Shape and Appearance
Round, evenly shaped jackfruit
Opt for jackfruits that are evenly round and sized, without any noticeable lumps or indentations.
Spines, Aroma, and Eyes
Ripe jackfruits have a distinct aroma, soft spines, and open eyes. In contrast, chemically treated jackfruits have hard, dense spines, and you won’t detect any natural fragrance.
Additionally, unripe jackfruits have green skin, sharp spines, and a solid sound when knocked on.
3. Simple Jackfruit Cutting Method
Preparation Before Cutting
Applying oil to hands before cutting jackfruit
- To prevent the sticky latex from adhering to your hands and knife, coat your palms and the blade with oil. Alternatively, rub your hands with salt to reduce the stickiness.
- Place a cardboard sheet or newspaper on the floor to catch any dripping latex and make cleanup easier.
Cutting the Jackfruit
Common method for cutting jackfruit
We’ve shared tips on ripening jackfruit, selecting the right one, and cutting it efficiently. Give these methods a try and enjoy this delicious tropical fruit!