Jackfruit

Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a large, tropical fruit native to South and Southeast Asia. It is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, reaching up to 80 pounds (36 kg) in weight and 36 inches (90 cm) in length. The fruit is known for its distinctive, strong odor and sweet, unique flavor, often compared to a combination of pineapple, banana, and mango. In Hebrew, jackfruit is called פרי הקטלן (Pri HaKatalan). In Spanish, it is known as yaca, in Portuguese as jacá, and in Hindi as कटहल (Kathal). Jackfruit is not only consumed as a fruit but also used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan cuisines due to its texture and neutral taste when unripe. The fruit is rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to diets. It grows on the jackfruit tree, which can reach heights of up to 30 meters (98 feet) and is related to the breadfruit tree. The fruit's large size and spiky exterior make it visually striking, and it is often used in both sweet and savory dishes across its native regions and beyond.