Red-Fleshed Malay Jackfruit has the scientific name Artocarpus heterophyllus and belongs to the Moraceae family. It is a jackfruit type associated with Malaysia and is currently cultivated and supplied in Vietnam. The fruit is characterized by red to reddish-orange edible bulbs, relatively thick flesh, a firm texture and a distinctly sweet flavor.
Characteristic Features
The fruit is medium to large in size and commonly has an elongated or slightly oval shape, with a surface covered by numerous relatively small and evenly distributed spines.
The skin is green when immature and gradually changes to greenish-yellow or yellow-green as the fruit reaches maturity. The spines tend to become more open and softer as the fruit ripens.
The edible bulbs range from red and reddish-orange to deeper red depending on maturity and individual fruit characteristics. The bulbs are generally thick with relatively little fiber, while the seeds are enclosed within the bulbs. The surrounding fibrous material may also show a characteristic red to reddish-orange color.
Fruit at suitable maturity should have well-developed bulbs with relatively uniform color and should be free from excessive softness, liquid leakage or fermentation. The bulbs and seeds should show no signs of mold or abnormal discoloration.
Acceptable raw material should be intact and free from bruising, decay, mold, abnormal leakage or unusual odors. The edible bulbs should not be excessively dry, mushy or abnormally discolored.
Flavor & Texture
The edible bulbs are thick, relatively crisp and firm, with low fiber content. They have a distinctly sweet flavor and characteristic jackfruit aroma, which may have a light vanilla-like note depending on maturity and growing conditions.
Uses and Applications
Used for fresh consumption after separating the edible bulbs and removing the seeds and unwanted fibrous material.
Can be used in ready-to-eat fruit portions, fruit salads and desserts.
Can also be used to prepare smoothies, mixed fruit beverages, ice cream, sweet soups and other fruit-based products.
Nutritionally, jackfruit provides natural carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium and various vitamins and minerals; nutritional value varies according to variety and maturity.
