The Forgotten Giant of Indian Fruits
Jackfruit — the state fruit of Kerala and the largest fruit in the world — has quietly fed generations across India. Known locally as Chakka in Malayalam, Kathal in Hindi, and Panasa in Telugu, this humble fruit is now gaining global fame as a superfood and a vegan meat alternative.
At SpicyJack.in, we believe jackfruit is more than a fruit — it’s a symbol of sustainability, abundance, and ingenuity. This guide takes you through the journey of India’s miracle fruit: its history, varieties, nutritional benefits, and the endless ways it can nourish your plate and planet.
A Fruit Rooted in Heritage
Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is believed to have originated in the rainforests of the Western Ghats, spreading from Kerala and coastal Karnataka to Southeast Asia. Ancient Ayurvedic texts mention it as a “Pushti Phala” — a fruit that brings strength, nourishment, and vitality.
For centuries, Kerala households have relied on jackfruit as a summer staple, making everything from raw curries (chakka puzhukku) to sweets (chakka varatti) and even chips. What was once seen as a humble backyard fruit is now being rediscovered for its sustainable and nutritious potential.
Varieties of Jackfruit: Soft, Firm, and Everything In-Between
Kerala alone cultivates over 30 local varieties of jackfruit, each unique in taste, color, and texture. Broadly, they fall into two categories:
• Varikka Chakka (Firm variety): Sweet, crisp, golden-yellow bulbs; perfect for chips, jams, and desserts.
• Koozha Chakka (Soft variety): Softer, more aromatic, ideal for curries, purees, and jackfruit flour.
In recent years, hybrid and high-yielding varieties like Sindoor, Singapore, and Muttom Varikka have been developed, catering to both domestic and export demands.
Nutrition Powerhouse: What’s Inside a Jackfruit
Jackfruit is nature’s nutrition bundle. It’s rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, yet low in calories and cholesterol.
Nutrient (per 100g) Value Key Benefit
Calories 95 kcal Energy boost
Fiber 1.5 g Aids digestion
Vitamin C 14 mg Strengthens immunity
Potassium 448 mg Supports heart health
Antioxidants — Fights free radicals
What truly sets jackfruit apart is its versatility — both ripe and raw forms have distinct benefits:
• Raw jackfruit: Rich in resistant starch, acts like a natural blood sugar stabilizer.
• Ripe jackfruit: Packed with carotenoids and sweetness, excellent for desserts and smoothies.
• Jackfruit seeds: Protein-dense, with iron and zinc — a perfect vegan snack or curry ingredient.
Culinary Versatility: One Fruit, Hundred Dishes
Jackfruit is a cook’s dream ingredient. It takes on the flavor of spices beautifully when raw and satisfies a sweet craving when ripe.
Traditional Dishes:
• Chakka Erissery – a coconut-based curry made from raw jackfruit
• Chakka Varatti – a rich jackfruit preserve
• Chakka Chips – crispy and golden, a Kerala favorite
Modern Innovations:
• Jackfruit tacos, burgers, biryanis, and mock-meat curries
• Jackfruit flour for gluten-free baking
• Dried jackfruit as a healthy travel snack
At SpicyJack.in, we celebrate this versatility — from farm-fresh raw jackfruit to vacuum-packed ready-to-cook chunks and flavorful jackfruit chips — all sourced from trusted organic farms in Kerala.
Sustainability: Every Part Matters
Few fruits are as sustainable as jackfruit. A single tree yields hundreds of kilos every season, often with zero need for fertilizers or pesticides.
And here’s the best part:
• The flesh becomes food.
• The seeds become snacks.
• The peel becomes compost or cattle feed.
• The leaves feed goats and cows.
This circular ecosystem makes jackfruit a zero-waste crop, ideal for a planet-conscious generation.
From Kerala to the World
Jackfruit has found its way into vegan menus from New York to London. International chefs call it “the pulled pork of plants.” Export demand is growing rapidly — not just for the fruit, but also for jackfruit-based snacks, flour, and ready-to-eat meals.
For Kerala farmers, this global interest offers both income diversification and a pathway to sustainable rural livelihoods — something SpicyJack.in is proud to support through fair sourcing and ethical trade practices.
Why Jackfruit Is the Future
• Plant-based revolution: Perfect meat substitute
• Nutrient-rich: Supports immunity and gut health
• Sustainable crop: Thrives without irrigation or chemicals
• Cultural heritage: Rooted in Indian tradition
In an era of processed foods and environmental stress, the jackfruit stands tall as a symbol of health, heritage, and hope.
Rediscovering the Taste of Home
At SpicyJack.in, we’re on a mission to bring this ancient fruit to every modern kitchen — fresh, organic, and full of life. From Kerala’s green heartlands to your doorstep, each product we offer tells a story of care, community, and craftsmanship.
So the next time you bite into a piece of golden jackfruit, remember — it’s not just food. It’s the flavor of India’s future.