| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 90 mins – 120 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 260 | 13g | 2g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 6g | 4g | 0.8g |
Ah, the Breadfruit Roast – a recipe that blends the uniqueness of breadfruit with the comforting essence of home-cooked cuisine. Growing up in Texas, I was surrounded by the rich tapestry of Southern flavors and Tex-Mex flair. Yet, there’s something extraordinarily captivating about incorporating tropical ingredients into my cooking. Breadfruit, with its starchy texture and ability to absorb robust seasonings, brings an unparalleled diversity to this dish.
A Unique Ingredient with History
Breadfruit is not a common staple in many kitchens, but its history is as rich as its flavor. Originating from the islands of the South Pacific, this versatile fruit is known for its ability to be roasted, baked, fried, or even boiled. For this Breadfruit Roast, I’ve chosen to roast it to enhance its natural earthiness, allowing the spices and other ingredients to penetrate and create a symphony of flavors.
Health Benefits in Every Bite
This recipe isn’t just delightful for your taste buds; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Breadfruit is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy. Additionally, it’s rich in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and helping to maintain a healthy gut. When combined with antioxidant-rich bell peppers and heart-healthy olive oil, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes and palate but also a boon for your health.
Seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary, this recipe offers an aromatic experience akin to classic roasted dishes like potatoes or squash but with an exotic twist. The addition of lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while the fresh parsley garnish gives a refreshing finish. For those looking to pair this dish with something else, it works exceptionally well alongside grilled meats or even a simple green salad.
If you’re intrigued by breadfruit and want to explore more about its culinary uses, you might find this link helpful. It provides a fascinating overview of the fruit’s history and its numerous applications in different cuisines.
Similar to roasted root vegetables or even some Mediterranean-style dishes, this Breadfruit Roast offers a hearty, flavorful option for any meal. For those who love to experiment with new ingredients and flavors, I assure you this dish will not disappoint. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a breadfruit and let’s start roasting!
What You’ll Need
- 1 large breadfruit (about 4-5 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare the breadfruit by cutting off the top and bottom ends, then peeling the skin. Cut the breadfruit into thick wedges, removing the core from each slice.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Mix well to form a seasoned oil mixture.
Step Three
Add the breadfruit wedges to the bowl and toss them in the seasoned oil mixture, ensuring each wedge is evenly coated.
Step Four
Spread the seasoned breadfruit wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add the thinly sliced onion and bell peppers to the baking sheet, mixing them with the breadfruit wedges.
Step Five
Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, turning the wedges halfway through the cooking time. Continue roasting until the breadfruit is golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.
Step Six
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the roasted breadfruit and vegetables with lemon juice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Step Seven
Serve the breadfruit roast hot as a delicious and nutritious main dish or side dish. Enjoy!
