Chakka Puzhukku, also known as Raw Jackfruit Puzhukku, is a popular dish in Kerala made with raw jackfruit, creating a mash that is both comforting and delicious. This jackfruit recipe strikes a perfect balance between spiciness, sweetness, and earthiness, and it pairs wonderfully with spicy pork or fish curry. Although it has a more textured consistency, puzhukku resembles mashed potatoes in appearance.
Traditional jackfruit recipes have deep roots in Keralan cuisine. The fruit’s high fibre content aids digestion, and its meaty texture makes it a favourite among vegetarians looking for meat alternatives. Raw Jackfruit Puzhukku is built on layers of flavour: the heat of green chillies, the sweetness of coconut, and the aroma of curry leaves.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
4 cupsRaw jackfruit, sliced and cleaned
1 cupWater
To tasteSalt
1 cupGrated coconut
½ tspTurmeric powder
2-3Green chillies
4Shallots
2 podsGarlic
1 tbspCoconut oil
1 tspMustard seeds
2-3 sprigsCurry leaves
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Step 1: Cook the jackfruit
Remove the skin and core, and cut the raw jackfruit into bite-sized chunks. Boil it in salted water with turmeric until tender, approximately for 12 to 15 minutes. Drain the chunks and gently mash using a wooden spoon.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Prepare the coconut paste
Grind together grated coconut, green chillies, shallots, and garlic into a coarse paste. Avoid adding water for texture.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Season the mixture
Warm coconut oil in a sturdy pan. Add the mustard seeds and let them pop. Add the curry leaves for an aromatic touch. Finally, add the coconut paste and simmer on low heat until the raw aroma fades away.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Combine and finish
Toss in the cooked jackfruit. Coat well, then cook, covered, for three to four minutes. Season to taste and serve warm.
Coconut is more commonly used in the Kerala version. You can use ground peanuts or cashews instead, but the flavour will be different.
Puzhukku originated in the Palakkad district and is a traditional Kerala dish made with mashed or cooked lentils or root vegetables, coconut, and spices.
Yes. Vegan and gluten-free by nature, this traditional jackfruit recipe is suitable for many diets.
Besides puzhukku, jackfruit is used in chakka varatti, chakka chips, and curries.