Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
273 | 14g | 7g | 45g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
8g | 12g | 5g | 0.7g |
There’s a simple joy that I experience every time I make a hearty and wholesome plate of Baked Breadfruit. This humble yet vibrant dish effortlessly merges my love for the Pacific Northwest’s robust produce with my gastronomically diverse Japanese heritage. Not to mention, it takes me back to the bustling food markets of Japan, abundant with various forms of this fruit omnipresent in tropical regions. Now, let’s jump right into why this baked breadfruit recipe is so close to my heart.
A Culinary Voyage
Breadfruit, with its delectably custard-like texture and mild taste, practically screams versatility. It mimics the dominance of rice, a staple I grew up with, and pairs masterfully with the potent herbs and spices, reminding me of the time I spent at home cooking with my mother and grandmother. Rich with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and that optional heat kick from the chili pepper, this dish strongly resonates with my Asian roots.
A Bowlful of Health
But it’s not just the delightful taste that enamors me. Baked Breadfruit is a dynamo of essential nutrients. Breadfruit itself is a good source of antioxidants, calcium, copper, dietary fiber, energy, iron, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, protein, thiamine, and vitamins A and C (Healthline), strengthening your immune system and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, the bell peppers and tomatoes are packed with vitamins boosting your vision and cardiovascular health.
Moreover, let’s not forget the herbs. Thyme leaves are renowned for their varied health benefits – they support digestion, alleviate respiratory ailments, and even enhance mood! Parsley, similarly, is high in antioxidants and vitamin K, promoting bone health and a stronger immune system (WebMD).
Versatility at its best
One of the aspects I particularly appreciate about the Baked Breadfruit is its versatility. It can stand alone as a nourishing main or sidle comfortably alongside an array of different recipies, working particularly well with grilled fish or a serving of sautéed shrimp.
Sometimes, I like to mix its flavor profile up, drawing inspiration from other dishes that bear similarities to it. The way it soaks up the savory chicken broth and butter, for instance, reminds me of a gratifying bowl of risotto. Simultaneously, the medley of colorful vegetables tossed in brings to mind a rustic ratatouille (Bonappetit).
In the end, what keeps me coming back to the Baked Breadfruit recipe is its taste, nutritional punch, and versatility, reminding me every single time of my incredible cross-cultural food journey. After all, isn’t that the beauty of cuisine – the way it tells stories about who we are?
What You’ll Need
- 1 large Breadfruit
- 2 tablespoons Canola Oil
- 1.5 teaspoons Sea Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 stalks Green Onion, chopped
- 1 medium Bell Pepper, chopped
- 1 Chili Pepper, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh Thyme leaves
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 medium Tomato, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Parsley, chopped
Method
Step One
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Using a sharp knife, clear off the outer skin of the breadfruit. Then, cut it into halves, and remove the core.
Step Two
Place the halves of the breadfruit in a baking dish, then brush them liberally with Canola Oil. Season the breadfruit with Sea Salt and Black Pepper on all sides. Poke a few holes on the flat surface of the breadfruit to allow it to absorb more flavor as it bakes.
Step Three
In a small bowl, combine minced Garlic, chopped Onion, chopped Green Onion, chopped Bell Pepper, chopped Chili Pepper (optional), and fresh Thyme leaves. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly.
Step Four
Slather the breadfruit halves with Unsalted Butter, then sprinkle the combined ingredients from step three over them. Pour the Chicken Broth into the baking dish, around the breadfruit halves.
Step Five
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, then bake for about 1 hour. Check the breadfruit every 20 minutes and baste with the Chicken Broth in the baking dish to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step Six
After 1 hour or when the breadfruit is tender and golden brown, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped Tomato and chopped Parsley before serving.
Step Seven
Enjoy your Baked Breadfruit warm – serve as a side dish or as a main course. Enjoy!