August 08, 2024

Healthy Recipe: BBQ Jackfruit-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

By Jennifer Kushnier, for Independence Good Living

Cody C/for PhillyVoice

If you’ve ever wandered through the produce aisle and spotted a greenish, spiky object the size and shape of a large loaf of sourdough bread, you’ve probably encountered jackfruit. Native to India, the fruit has tender, juicy, and shreddable flesh, giving it a meaty texture, and it takes on the flavors of whatever it’s cooked with.

Enter BBQ Jackfruit-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes — a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but is also rich in magnesium, fiber, and vitamin C. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring meatless meals, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

BBQ Jackfruit-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes — makes 2 servings

Ingredients:
• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• ½ teaspoon of olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt
• 1 package (10 oz.) of BBQ-flavored jackfruit
• ½ cup of shredded cabbage
• ½ cup of grated carrot
• ½ cup of light sour cream
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of lime juice
• 1/8 teaspoon of chipotle powder
• Garnish with cilantro, chopped

Directions:

Wash the potatoes, pat dry, and prick all over with a fork. Rub with the olive oil and sprinkle with the salt. Set on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high until a butter knife easily pierces them, about 10 minutes. (Alternatively, bake in a 425°F oven for 45 to 60 minutes.)
Meanwhile, gently heat the jackfruit in a small saucepan or skillet over medium heat until warmed through, breaking up any larger chunks, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cabbage and carrot.
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream or yogurt, 1 Tbsp lime juice, and the chili powder, stirring until combined and smooth. If the cream isn’t drizzle-able, add more lime juice. If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder, to taste.
Halve the sweet potatoes lengthwise and lightly fluff the flesh with a fork. Divide the jackfruit mixture over the top of each potato. Drizzle an ample amount of the sour cream onto each potato, serving the rest alongside. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.

Tip: Jackfruit comes already dressed in many flavors. Try smoked, adding just enough of your favorite BBQ sauce to moisten; teriyaki, topping with scallions and sesame seeds; or Tex-Mex, using it for tacos or stuffing into bell peppers.

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 498
Fat: 13g
Saturated fat: 4.5g
Cholesterol: 22mg
Sodium: 473mg
Carbs: 88g
Fiber:17g
Sugar: 23g
Protein: 10g