| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 23g | 14g | 28g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 5g | 14g | 0.4g |
One dish that has always been a favorite in my kitchen is the Baked Breadfruit with Cheese. You wouldn’t typically find this dish in an Italian-American kitchen like mine, but I love bringing my adventurous spirit (acquired through many hiking trips) to every recipe I try. This one in particular, which I’ve come to see as a unique veggie alternative to the traditional potato gratin, certainly caught my eye and palate with its exquisitely savory and cheesy taste. Take a look at this visual masterpiece here:
The Magic of Breadfruit
Breadfruit, the main ingredient in the Baked Breadfruit with Cheese, is a tropical fruit that’s lauded for its versatility. When baked or fried, it adopts a texture similar to potatoes—making it an amazing ingredient in a host of recipes. Beyond its culinary uses, it’s rich in nutrients, containing impressive amounts of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Its high fiber content notably aids in digestion, while its generous supply of antioxidants support immunity, giving it a place of pride in a healthy diet.
Flavor Combos that Sing
What I adore about this recipe is how perfectly the deep, starchy flavor of the breadfruit merges with the two kinds of cheese—sharp cheddar and flavorful Parmesan—to create an indulgent side dish or wholesome main course. The buttery savoriness of the melted cheeses, cut by the slight tang of the heavy cream, dances wonderfully on the tongue. Adding in the aromatic notes of rosemary and thyme, along with the bite of garlic, elevates the whole dish to something utterly divine.
Although breadfruit is the star of the dish, it becomes a welcoming canvas to these strong and full-bodied flavors. It is a perfect example of a simple ingredient transformed into a gourmet experience. It’s reminiscent of Italian cheese dumpling gratins, or even a twist on my family’s favorite hearty potato-gratin. If you’re in the mood for more, it might pair nicely with a simple roasted chicken, or even a deeply flavored beef and pork ragu.
Ultimately, what keeps me coming back to Baked Breadfruit with Cheese is its ability to be both a cheerful companion to a grand main dish, and a show-stopping standalone course. Both hearty and delightful, it is a testament to the culinary magic that happens when we are willing to venture a little outside our comfort zone. Try it, and I believe you’ll find it as delectably unforgettable as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 1 large breadfruit
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Make sure the oven is preheated to the right temperature in order to get a perfect bake for your breadfruit.
Step Two
Wash the breadfruit under running water, then cut it in half and remove the core. Slice it into thin slices about 1/4 inch thick. Peel the skin off after slicing for ease of peeling.
Step Three
Spread the sliced breadfruit in a baking dish and pour the melted butter over them. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, ensuring that each slice gets a bit of seasoning.
Step Four
Combine the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary in a separate bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well-blended.
Step Five
Pour the cheese and cream mixture over the breadfruit slices in the baking dish, ensuring an even distribution across all the slices. This will melt during baking and soak into the breadfruit, adding flavor and moisture.
Step Six
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer of the cheese and cream mixture. This will provide a crispy, golden texture to counterbalance the creaminess of the cheese and the softness of the breadfruit.
Step Seven
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the breadfruit is tender. Insert a knife or a toothpick into the breadfruit to check its doneness. If it comes out clean, your baked breadfruit with cheese is ready!
Step Eight
Remove your dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Baked Breadfruit with Cheese while it’s warm for the best taste and texture.
