Is there an alternative to red meat that actually tastes like...well, meat? The answer is a resounding (and surprising) “yes!”
Even more shocking is that this alternative is a fruit. Jackfruit, to be exact. Not only is this fruit a delicious alternative to fatty red meat, but it has some added health benefits as well.
But where is jackfruit from? And is it really a good alternative? Let's take a deeper look into what makes this "miracle fruit" so unique.
What Is Jackfruit?
Simply put, jackfruit is a large, highly nutritious fruit that grows on trees in tropical regions around the world, like South America, the Caribbean, Australia and Southeast Asia.
This power fruit is thought to have originated in Southern India thousands of years ago. One jackfruit tree has the ability to produce two to three tons of fruit each year, with a single jackfruit growing as large as 100 pounds.
What Are The Benefits Of Jackfruit?
Jackfruit As A Staple Food
Because jackfruit is drought-resistant, grows easily, survives pests and diseases, and is chock-full of vital nutrients, researchers are deeming it a “miracle” food crop. It has the potential to replace crops that are suffering as a result of changes in climate, such as wheat, corn and other staples.
This miracle fruit is rich in iron, potassium, fiber and calcium, and it can be processed into everything from flour to ice cream.
Jackfruit As A Meat Alternative
The important thing to understand about jackfruit is that it serves completely different purposes according to when it’s harvested. In its fully ripened form, jackfruit has the texture of (and more sweetness than) a ripe banana.
Young jackfruit, on the other hand, is where you’ll find your meat replacement option. Because the sugars haven’t developed yet in a young jackfruit, it isn’t sweet. It looks, feels and chews just like meat.
Is Jackfruit Good For Dieters?
Although jackfruit isn’t very high in protein (with only a couple of grams per serving), its fiber content more than makes up for that. Truth is, most of us already eat plenty of protein, but not many get the recommended amount of fiber.
Why is fiber so important for dieters? In addition to aiding in digestion, it helps you feel full and satiated so that you don’t overeat. It also keeps you fuller longer, helping stave off hunger later in the day.
Because jackfruit is high in fiber but low in fat and calories, it makes an excellent meat alternative for people looking to lose weight or just get healthy. It’s super versatile, too, so you won’t easily get bored with it.
From pulled pork-style sandwiches to tacos and chili, the meal options with jackfruit are nearly endless.
Jackfruit For The Win
Although not well-known in the U.S., jackfruit could be a solution to failing staple crops around the world. What’s more, it makes the perfect whole-food, unprocessed red meat replacement for dieters and health-seekers. Check the exotic fruits section of your local supermarket and give this versitile fruit a try.
If you’re ready to eat healthier this summer, try the Mediterranean Diet. Learn more by downloading our FREE Mediterranean Diet Guide below.
