Island Spice Stuffed Breadfruit: A Taste of Tropical Comfort

The aroma of spices, the earthy sweetness of baked breadfruit, and the savory depth of a perfectly seasoned filling – it’s a sensory experience that always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She would often prepare this dish, a staple in our home, especially during the cooler evenings when a hearty, soul-warming meal was most welcome. I remember watching, mesmerized, as she expertly carved the breadfruit, her hands moving with a practiced grace, preparing it to hold a treasure trove of flavors. This Island Spice Stuffed Breadfruit isn’t just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory, a culinary hug from my past, and a dish I’m thrilled to share with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 stuffed breadfruit
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (contains meat, can be made vegetarian)

Ingredients

This recipe calls for a few key components, each playing a vital role in creating the delicious final product.

For the Breadfruit:

• 1 large breadfruit (full, but not ripe)

For the Savory Filling:

• 3/4 lb lean hamburger
• 3/4 lb ham, ground
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 green onion, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Island spice Jamaican jerk spice, to taste (or the jerk seasoning mixture of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons real butter
• 1 medium tomatoes, chopped

Equipment Needed

To bring this delightful dish to life, you’ll want to have these essential tools ready:

• A large pot for parboiling
• A sharp knife for preparing the breadfruit
• A sturdy spoon or scoop for hollowing out the breadfruit
• A large skillet for cooking the filling
• A baking pan that can comfortably hold the stuffed breadfruit
• An oven preheated to the correct temperature

Instructions

Crafting this Island Spice Stuffed Breadfruit is a rewarding process that begins with preparing the star ingredient, the breadfruit, and culminates in a beautifully baked, flavor-packed meal.

1. Begin by preparing the breadfruit. Peel it and then parboil it whole in salted water. This initial cooking step softens the breadfruit, making it easier to handle and scoop. Once softened, remove it from the water and allow it to cool completely. Patience here is key; a cool breadfruit is much easier to work with.

2. While the breadfruit is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven heats up, lightly grease a baking pan that will serve as the vessel for our masterpiece.

3. In a large skillet, lightly fry the chopped onion, green onion, and chopped tomatoes in the real butter until they become softened and fragrant. This foundational step builds a wonderful aromatic base for the filling.

4. Next, add the lean hamburger and ground ham to the skillet. Cook the meats with the sautéed aromatics until the meat is almost done. Season generously with salt and your chosen island spice Jamaican jerk spice to your liking. Remember, the jerk spice is the soul of this dish, so don’t be shy! Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

5. Once the breadfruit has cooled sufficiently, carefully take your cooled breadfruit. From the stalk end, cut out the core. Then, using a spoon or scoop, scoop out enough of the pulp to create a generous cavity. Be mindful not to scoop too deeply, leaving enough of the breadfruit wall to hold the delicious filling.

6. Now for the exciting part: fill the cavity of the breadfruit with the prepared meat mixture. Mound it in generously, ensuring no space is wasted.

7. Carefully place the stuffed breadfruit into the greased baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven until the breadfruit is soft and has achieved a nice golden brown colour. This usually takes about 50 minutes, but keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. The exterior should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the filling should be beautifully browned and caramelized.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Island Spice Stuffed Breadfruit from good to unforgettable, consider these culinary insights:

• Breadfruit Selection: The key to a successful breadfruit is choosing one that is full but not ripe. A ripe breadfruit will be too soft and sweet, while an unripe one will be too hard and starchy. It should feel firm to the touch and have a smooth, unblemished skin.
• Jerk Spice Harmony: If you’re using a store-bought jerk seasoning, taste it first. Some are spicier than others. Adjust the amount you use to suit your preference for heat. For a more authentic flavor, consider making your own jerk spice blend.
• Meat Moisture: To ensure the filling stays moist and flavorful, don’t overcook the meat mixture before stuffing. It will continue to cook in the breadfruit during baking.
• Scooping Technique: When hollowing out the breadfruit, aim for a consistent depth. This ensures even cooking and that the filling is well-contained. You can save the scooped-out breadfruit pulp for another dish, perhaps a fritter or mashed side.
• Oven Calibration: Ovens can be notoriously fickle. If you know your oven runs hot or cool, adjust the baking time accordingly. A meat thermometer can be a helpful tool to ensure the internal temperature of the filling has reached a safe and palatable level, though visual cues like a golden-brown exterior are usually sufficient.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This stuffed breadfruit is a substantial dish all on its own, perfect for a main course. Serve it piping hot, allowing diners to cut into the tender breadfruit and scoop out the savory filling. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed greens would provide a lovely contrast.

Leftovers, should there be any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm portions in a covered baking dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or reheat in the microwave for a quicker option. Be aware that the breadfruit might soften further upon reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for this hearty dish. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	319.5 kcal
Calories from Fat		214 g
Total Fat	23.8 g	36%
Saturated Fat	14.1 g	70%
Cholesterol	82 mg	27%
Sodium	797.5 mg	33%
Total Carbohydrate	15.8 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	2.9 g	11%
Sugars	6.6 g	26%
Protein	12.4 g	24%

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is a classic, feel free to personalize it to your liking!

• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, you can substitute the lean hamburger and ground ham with a generous amount of seasoned black beans or lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Ensure the beans or lentils are cooked and seasoned well before adding to the skillet.
• Spice Level Adjustment: The beauty of jerk seasoning is its versatility. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less spice or a milder blend. For those who love heat, consider adding a finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper (handle with extreme caution!) to the filling.
• Added Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other finely chopped vegetables into the filling, such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery, for added texture and nutrients.

FAQs

Q: How do I know if my breadfruit is ready to use?
A: A breadfruit that is “full, but not ripe” will feel firm to the touch and have a smooth, unbroken skin. It should not be soft or have blemishes.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, the meat filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before stuffing the breadfruit.

Q: What kind of jerk spice should I use?
A: You can use a good quality store-bought Jamaican jerk spice blend, or if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own. The key is a balance of allspice, thyme, and chili peppers.

Q: Is breadfruit difficult to prepare?
A: It requires a bit of effort to peel and scoop, but it’s not overly complicated. Parboiling makes it much easier to handle.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: For extra heat, add a finely diced scotch bonnet pepper to the meat mixture. Be sure to remove the seeds and membranes for a less intense burn, and handle it with gloves!

This Island Spice Stuffed Breadfruit is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to the islands, a comforting embrace, and a testament to the power of simple, honest ingredients transformed by a touch of spice and a lot of love. I encourage you to try it, to savor its unique flavors, and perhaps, to create your own cherished memories around this delicious dish. Happy cooking!