Jackfruit, or Kathal, is a versatile and nutritious fruit that is loved by many. Not only does it taste great, but it is also packed with essential nutrients like iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, making it a popular choice in many households, especially during the summer months. However, one of the biggest challenges when preparing jackfruit is cutting it. The sticky white substance that oozes out can make the process tricky, and if you're not careful, you might even end up cutting yourself. While many people opt for the convenience of pre-cut jackfruit from the market, it often lacks the freshness and quality you'd expect.
To help you chop jackfruit like a pro at home, we've rounded up six simple tips that will make the process easier, cleaner, and safer.
1. Use A Sharp Knife
The first rule of cutting jackfruit is to use a sharp knife. Jackfruit has a thick, tough peel, and a dull knife can make the cutting process longer and more difficult. A sharp knife will allow you to cut through the peel more efficiently and with less effort. However, while a sharp knife is essential for the task, it is crucial to be cautious as the fruit's tough skin can sometimes cause the knife to slip. Always focus on making deliberate, controlled cuts and keep your fingers away from the sharp edge.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a large, sharp knife, try using a chef's knife or cleaver, which can provide better leverage and precision.
2. Keep A Cotton Cloth Handy
Cutting jackfruit often leads to the sticky white sap oozing out. This sap can be difficult to clean off your hands and knife, and it can leave a residue that may make it harder to handle the fruit. To avoid this, keep a cotton cloth nearby. After every few cuts, wipe your knife and hands with the cloth to remove the sticky sap.
This simple trick will help maintain a cleaner working surface and make the entire process much more manageable. Alternatively, you could keep a wet cloth or wet paper towels within reach for easier cleanup.
3. Spread Newspaper
Before starting the cutting process, lay down some newspapers on your work surface. The sticky sap will often spill out and stain your counter or table, so spreading newspapers helps catch any mess. It also makes cleaning up afterward much easier.
Newspapers are an inexpensive and effective way to prevent the sticky sap from spreading all over your kitchen. Once you’re done cutting, simply roll up the newspapers and dispose of them without worrying about the mess.
Pro Tip: You can also use disposable plastic sheets or old towels for this purpose if you prefer.
4. Use Mustard Oil
One of the most effective ways to handle jackfruit's sticky sap is to apply mustard oil to your hands and knife before starting. Mustard oil works as a natural lubricant, preventing the fruit's sticky latex from adhering to your hands or knife. It also helps in slicing the jackfruit more easily, as the knife won’t slip or get stuck in the tough skin.
To apply mustard oil, simply rub a small amount on your hands and knife before you start cutting. This simple step can save you a lot of time and hassle. Start by cutting the jackfruit in half, then divide each half into 7-8 circular sections. After peeling each section, you can cut the pieces into smaller chunks as needed.
Pro Tip: If you don't have mustard oil, you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as an alternative.
5. Rub Lemon on Knife
For a smoother cutting experience, rub half a lemon on your knife before you start chopping the jackfruit. The acidity of lemon helps reduce the stickiness and makes it easier to cut through the fruit's tough skin. This technique is particularly helpful for preventing the sticky sap from sticking to the knife.
You can also try this technique when cutting other sticky vegetables like ladyfinger (okra). Simply rub the knife with lemon or vinegar to keep it smooth and clean throughout the chopping process.
Pro Tip: After using the lemon, wipe the knife with a clean cloth to remove any excess sap before you start cutting.
6. Salt and Turmeric Water
Once you’ve finished cutting the jackfruit into smaller pieces, it’s important to store them properly to prevent browning and preserve freshness. Prepare a bowl of water mixed with salt and turmeric before starting the cutting process. Immediately after cutting the jackfruit, drop the pieces into the water. This step helps prevent oxidation and keeps the pieces fresh for longer.
After soaking the jackfruit pieces in salt and turmeric water for a few minutes, rinse them thoroughly and allow them to drain in a sieve. This helps remove any excess turmeric and salt and makes the pieces ready for cooking.
Pro Tip: If you're using the jackfruit for cooking (like in curries or biryanis), you can skip this step and go straight to preparing your dish.
Why Pre-Cut Jackfruit May Not Be the Best Option
While buying pre-cut jackfruit from the market may seem like a convenient solution, it has several drawbacks. For one, it can be difficult to assess the freshness of pre-cut jackfruit. If the fruit has been stored improperly, it could affect its taste and texture. Additionally, the chances of the fruit being exposed to contaminants during the cutting process are higher.
By cutting the jackfruit yourself, you are guaranteed to get the freshest produce with minimal risk of contamination. You also have control over how it's cut, ensuring that it meets your desired size and shape.
How to Store Jackfruit After Cutting
Once you’ve successfully cut the jackfruit, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness. If you plan to use the jackfruit within the next couple of days, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pieces will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pieces. To do this, coat the pieces lightly with mustard oil or store them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent them from sticking together. Properly frozen jackfruit can last for up to 3-4 months.
Next Steps: Cooking with Jackfruit
Once you've mastered the art of cutting and peeling jackfruit, you're ready to cook with it! Jackfruit is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you're making a simple vegetable curry, a flavorful jackfruit biryani, or a crunchy pickle, the possibilities are endless.
Jackfruit pairs wonderfully with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, so feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles and recipes. The texture of jackfruit, especially when cooked, is often compared to pulled pork, making it a popular choice for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Chopping and peeling jackfruit can be a challenging task, but with these six pro tips, you’ll be able to handle it like a pro. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these simple tricks will help you cut and prepare jackfruit with ease. And with proper storage and cooking techniques, you can enjoy this nutrient-packed fruit in a variety of delicious dishes.