Jackfruit Bhaji
Tender, meaty pieces of raw jackfruit cooked in a fragrant blend of Maharashtrian spices. This unique 'fanasachi bhaji' is a rustic and hearty vegetarian dish that pairs perfectly with warm chapatis or bhakri.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Jackfruit: Apply 1 tsp of oil to your hands and knife to prevent the sticky sap from adhering. Carefully peel the green skin, remove the hard central core, and cut the jackfruit into 1-inch cubes. Rinse the cubes thoroughly under running water.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Pressure Cook the Jackfruit: In a pressure cooker, combine the jackfruit cubes, 0.5 cup of water, 0.25 tsp of the turmeric powder, and 0.5 tsp of the salt. Secure the lid and cook on high heat for 1 whistle. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Drain any excess water and set the cooked jackfruit aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Masala Base: Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a wide pan (kadai) over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chillies, and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Add Spices: Lower the heat and add the remaining 0.25 tsp turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and goda masala. Stir continuously for about 30-40 seconds to prevent the spices from burning.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Combine and Cook: Add the pressure-cooked jackfruit to the pan along with the remaining 0.75 tsp salt. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the jackfruit pieces are well-coated with the masala. If the mixture seems too dry, you can sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Simmer and Finish: Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to absorb all the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Turn off the heat.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly grated coconut, chopped coriander leaves, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Give it a final gentle mix and serve hot with chapati, bhakri, or as a side with dal and rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always oil your hands and knife before cutting raw jackfruit to avoid its sticky sap.
- 2Do not overcook the jackfruit in the pressure cooker, as it will become mushy. It should be tender but hold its shape.
- 3Goda masala is the key to the authentic Maharashtrian flavor. If unavailable, you can use garam masala, but the taste will be different.
- 4For a quicker version, you can use canned raw jackfruit. Rinse it thoroughly before use to remove the brine and skip the pressure cooking step.
- 5This bhaji tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Potatoes
Add 1 medium-sized potato, cubed, along with the jackfruit in the pressure cooker for a more filling dish.
Creamier VersionCreamier Version
For a slight gravy, add 1/4 cup of thin coconut milk in the final stage of cooking and simmer for a few minutes.
Sweet and SpicySweet and Spicy
Incorporate a small piece of jaggery (about 1 tsp, grated) along with the spices to add a hint of sweetness that balances the flavors, a common practice in Maharashtrian cuisine.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Raw jackfruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight by providing a feeling of fullness.
Excellent Plant-Based Meat Alternative
The fibrous, meaty texture of raw jackfruit makes it a popular and convincing substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes, offering a satisfying and low-fat option.
Boosts Immunity
Jackfruit contains a good amount of Vitamin C and other antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections and free radical damage.
Good Source of Potassium
It is a decent source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps in regulating blood pressure and maintaining heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Jackfruit Bhaji is quite healthy. Raw jackfruit is rich in dietary fiber, low in calories, and provides essential vitamins and minerals. It's a great plant-based, meat-like substitute, making the dish both nutritious and satisfying.