Raw Jackfruit Sabzi
Discover the meaty texture of green jackfruit in this classic Maharashtrian dry curry. Spiced with traditional goda masala, it's a hearty, vegan dish that pairs perfectly with chapatis or dal rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Jackfruit
- b.Generously grease your hands and knife with 1 tsp of oil to prevent the jackfruit's sticky sap from adhering.
- c.Carefully peel the green, spiky outer skin of the jackfruit. Cut it in half, remove the hard central core, and then chop the flesh into 1-inch cubes.
- d.Immediately place the cut jackfruit pieces into a bowl of water to prevent them from browning.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Pressure Cook the Jackfruit
- b.Drain the jackfruit pieces. Transfer them to a pressure cooker.
- c.Add 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 tsp of the turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp of the salt.
- d.Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
- e.Once safe to open, drain any excess water and set the cooked jackfruit aside. It should be tender but still hold its shape.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Masala Base
- b.Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Follow with cumin seeds and asafoetida, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until it turns soft and golden brown.
- e.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Sabzi
- b.Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
- c.Reduce the heat and add the remaining 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Sauté for one minute.
- d.Add the cooked jackfruit pieces, the remaining 3/4 tsp salt, and the optional jaggery. Gently mix to coat the jackfruit evenly with the masala without breaking the pieces.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer and Garnish
- b.Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of water if the mixture seems too dry. Cover the pan and let the sabzi simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. This allows the jackfruit to absorb all the flavors.
- c.Turn off the heat. Stir in the freshly grated coconut.
- d.Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
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 easily manage its sticky sap.
- 2Goda masala is the heart of this dish. If unavailable, garam masala can be a substitute, but the authentic Maharashtrian flavor will be different.
- 3Do not overcook the jackfruit in the pressure cooker; it should be tender enough to pierce with a fork but firm enough to hold its shape.
- 4A small amount of jaggery is highly recommended as it beautifully balances the spicy and tangy notes of the curry.
- 5For a richer texture, you can lightly pan-fry the boiled jackfruit pieces in a little oil until golden before adding them to the masala.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Potatoes
Add 1 medium potato, cubed, and pressure cook it along with the jackfruit for a heartier sabzi.
Gravy VersionGravy Version
For a curry with gravy, add 1 cup of thin coconut milk or warm water in the final simmering step and cook for a few more minutes.
Spicier KickSpicier Kick
Sauté 1-2 slit green chilies along with the onions to increase the heat level.
With CashewsWith Cashews
Add a paste of 8-10 soaked cashews along with the tomato puree for a creamier, richer consistency.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Raw jackfruit is packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Great Meat Substitute
With its unique stringy and meaty texture, raw jackfruit is a popular and satisfying substitute for meat in vegan and vegetarian diets.
Rich in Nutrients
This vegetable is a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and maintain overall health.
Supports Heart Health
The potassium content in jackfruit can help in managing blood pressure, while its fiber content contributes to lowering cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is quite healthy. Raw jackfruit is rich in dietary fiber, low in fat, and provides essential vitamins and minerals. It's a great plant-based, whole-food dish.