| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 19g | 6g | 37g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 8g | 25g | 1g |
There are so many reasons why I adore Stuffed Breadfruit, a hearty, vegetable-based Caribbean favourite straight out of my family’s kitchen. This dish is a fantastic amalgamation of my Spanish and Cuban roots, presenting an array of rich flavors that dance on your palate. For those not acquainted with breadfruit, it is a starchy fruit walking the crossroads between potato and bread, which when prepared right, bursts with exquisite tropical charm.
Inheriting Flavors From My Roots
The principle of tapas, a renowned Spanish practice, is to provide a small yet intensely flavorsome portion that excites the taste buds without overwhelming them. Similarly, my Stuffed Breadfruit recipe, despite being a full meal, maintains this ethos at its heart. Each ingredient such as ground beef, onions, bell peppers and garlic contributes to a symphony of flavors nuanced yet balanced.
The soy sauce and tomato hint at my Cuban heritage, epitomizing the essence of Cuban cuisine which is characterized by its bold flavors brought together in a harmonious ensemble.
A Nutritious Delicacy
The recipe also wins points in health. Breadfruit is a powerhouse of nutrition, abundant in dietary fibers, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s high in protein, making it a fantastic source for vegetarians, and is also beneficial for cardiovascular health. The other ingredients, ranging from garlic with its immunity boosting properties, to bell peppers, packed with vitamins, further enhance the nutritional balance of the dish.
In terms of preparation, I often joke that making this dish feels like performing a dance routine – myriad elements come together seamlessly producing a stunning end result. It’s an ideal choice when hosting a dinner – it’s nutritious, bursting with flavor, and feels like a treat exotic yet familiar.
The Stuffed Breadfruit is quite versatile and pairs well with a wide range of side dishes. For instance, a simple Cuban Black Beans recipe or a refreshing Spanish Rice would beautifully complement the robust flavors of the breadfruit.
In conclusion, my love for this recipe encapsulates everything: my heritage, the stunning blend of taste it offers, and the health benefits associated with it. And what could be more satisfying than a dish that connects you to your roots while taking care of your health and pampering your palate?
What You’ll Need
- 1 large Breadfruit
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Turkey
- 1/2 cup Onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup Bell Pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is preheating, make squares-shaped incisions with a knife around the breadfruit but ensure not to cut through the inner part.
Step Two
Rub some olive oil on the breadfruit and put in a baking dish. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake the breadfruit for approximately one hour or until it’s soft.
Step Three
While the breadfruit is in the oven, heat skillet on medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef or turkey, and cook until it’s no longer pink. Once done, drain the excess fat.
Step Four
Add chopped onions, bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Saute until the vegetables are soft. Next, add tomato sauce, soy sauce, black pepper and salt. Stir to combine all of the ingredients and adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Simmer for about 5 minutes then remove from heat.
Step Five
Once the breadfruit is done, carefully remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the cooked breadfruit from the center creating a hollow space for the filling.
Step Six
Fill the hollow space in the baked breadfruit with your prepared meat and vegetable mixture.
Step Seven
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top of the filled breadfruit and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Step Eight
Remove from the oven and let it cool. Your stuffed breadfruit is ready to serve. This dish can be served alone or with a side salad for a more filling meal.
