This prickly oval-shaped fruit tastes just like bread
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Have you ever heard of breadfruit? If not, you’re probably not alone. This prickly oval-shaped fruit is not something you see every day, unless you live in the South Pacific region, where it grows natively. When it is cooked, it tastes similar to — you guessed it right — freshly baked bread.
Talking about the same, N Lakshmi, Senior Dietician, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad said, “Breadfruit, scientifically named Artocarpus altilis, is a substantial tropical fruit from the Moraceae family. Originally found in the South Pacific Islands, it is now grown in various tropical regions globally. Its ripe state is characterised by yellow or green skin, with soft and custard-like flesh, often likened to potatoes or bread due to its starchy consistency when prepared.”
Similarly, Arooshi Garg, Lifestyle Expert, GOQii said that the fruit resembles a jackfruit because of its green and bumpy appearance. “However, the taste is similar to sweet potato. It derives its name as breadfruit because eating this fruit is typically considered to be equivalent to having a full meal. It can even be eaten as an alternative to bread, rice or wheat,” she added.
As for its nutritional properties, Garg said it is rich in fibre, carbohydrates, proteins and micronutrients. “This highly fibrous fruit is beneficial in curing constipation and fixing poor gut health. It is also rich in potassium, making it an excellent choice for people with high blood pressure,” she said.
Concurring, N Lakshmi noted that incorporating breadfruit into your diet offers numerous benefits. “Its starchy nature provides sustained energy release, while the high fibre content supports digestive health. Breadfruit also boosts immunity, supports heart health and promotes weight management; making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.”
How to incorporate breadfruit into your diet?
Incorporating breadfruit into your diet offers numerous benefits. (Source: Pixabay)
Breadfruit is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways. “It can be roasted or boiled, used in baked goods as gluten-free flour, sliced and baked into chips or fries, and added to soups and curries for added flavour and nutrients,” said N Lakshmi.
Meanwhile, Garg said that since the texture of breadfruit is similar to that of potatoes, the flesh can be cut and boiled, grilled, pan-cooked and even cooked on an open grill. “One can make a curry, use it as a filling, add it to a salad or even puree it to make a soup,” she continued.
Potential risks and side-effects
While it is considered generally safe, N Lakshmi said that breadfruit could have potential side effects. “Latex in the skin and sap can trigger allergies, requiring caution and consultation for those with latex allergies. High in carbs, it may challenge low-carb or ketogenic diets. Starchy nature can cause digestive discomfort, which can be countered by gradual incorporation,” she said.
The dietician concluded that diabetics must monitor blood sugar levels due to the high carbs in breadfruit. “Low-carb or keto dieters may need alternatives or limited breadfruit intake. Consulting professionals can help with dietary adjustments.”
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