Breadfruit

Breads have been a staple in diets around the world since ancient times, with some cultures using bread as a primary source of sustenance. Breads are created from a plethora of grains and starches, but one breadfruit stands out amongst the others in its unique composition and variety: the breadfruit. Originating in the South Pacific, this starchy fruit has been used for centuries by various cultures as both a staple food and a source of nutrition, lending to its status as a prized commodity and a major food source for many populations. In this blog post, we will explore the journey of breadfruit from the tree, to our dinner plate.

The breadfruit tree, known scientifically as Artocarpus altilis, is part of the mulberry and fig family, and is native to the South Pacific Islands. It can grow as high as 50 ft, and its trunk is covered in bumpy scales and short spines. Its bark is light gray with a yellowish hue and its dense foliage changes color throughout the year, with some varieties having glossy, dark green leaves and others possessing pale-green leaves, flecked with yellow.

Breadfruit flowers are either male or female, and the male and female trees must be present in order for the fruit to form. Male breadfruit flowers have a sweet lemony smell, attract a variety of pollinating insects, and are yellow-green in color. Female breadfruit flowers are also yellow-green in color, but lack the strong smell of their male counterparts. They are pollinated by the male flowers—as well as other pollinators such as ants and beetles—and the fertilised flowers bear fruit several months later.

Breadfruit have oval or round shapes, can range in size from the size of an apple to up to the size of a medium-sized cantaloupe, and usually weigh between 1-3 pounds. They can be green, yellow, or purple in color depending on the variety and are typically covered in warty, papery protuberances. The flesh has a mild, sweet taste and a creamy texture. The seeds, if present, are small and creamy, resembling those of a chestnut.

Harvesting a breadfruit requires delicate handling, as the mature fruit must be picked from the tree at the appropriate time in order for it to remain intact and delicious. Green, unripe breadfruit are fairly resistant to bruising or damage, and can be collected for ripening and transportation. Riper breadfruit will yield sweet, fragrant flesh and can easily be cut into edible slices or cubes, depending on the context in which it is being served.

After the breadfruit is harvested, it must be prepared for consumption by one of several methods. Baked breadfruit can be boiled, steamed, grilled, or roasted. Boiled breadfruit is often mashed and added to soups, salads, and stews. Grilled breadfruit is a popular snack or side dish. Roasting breadfruit brings out its sweet, nutty flavor, and is often enjoyed with butter and sugar, reminiscent of a sweet potato.

Once the breadfruit is prepared, it can be enjoyed immediately, or stored for further use. Breadfruit can be stored for long periods of time by dehydration, a process which removes the water from the fruit. To dehydrate breadfruit, the moist fruit is spread on large trays or sheets and dried in a cool, dark location for several hours or days, depending on the desired level of dryness. Dried breadfruit can be ground into flour and used in baked goods, or rehydrated by soaking it in water or milk for a few hours and enjoyed in a variety of dishes.

Breadfruit is a versatile and nutritious food item, providing an array of vitamins and minerals as well as proteins and carbohydrates. It is low in fat and sodium, and is high in iron, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and when combined with other grains, can make a nutritious and hearty meal. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants and can help prevent various chronic diseases.

The journey of breadfruit from the tree to our dinner table is truly a remarkable feat, incorporating many stages of growth, preparation, and storage in order to provide an array of delicious and nutritious dishes. From its harvest and preparation, to its many wholesome benefits, the breadfruit is a prized commodity and staple food enjoyed by people around the world.