Jackfruit Pasta Bake Gluten-Free & Vegan

Why Meat Replacements Instead of Fish?

The fishing industry is highly destructive, they are polluting our oceans with plastic and contributing to the extreme loss of aquatic life and species diversity. So much so, that  the world's oceans are predicted to be fishless by 2048.  This knowledge was absolutely devastating news to me as I've always loved the ocean, been fascinated by fish, turtles, dolphins, whales, and sharks. I hold high respect for all the sea life that resides in our oceans. Therefore, this is an industry that for many reasons I no longer want to support. I'm aware that we as a species must stop supporting this industry, and it's so easy too, all we have to do is individually and collectively purchase kinder options and boycott what is not sustainable. (Click here for more info.)

I've also learned that health-wise, there is nothing in fish that we cannot gain from other plant-based sources.  Omega 3'  are abundant in the plant kingdom and are rich in foods such as flax and chia, walnuts, even legumes such as soy and black beans contain omega 3's, also vegetables like squash and pumpkin. (Click here for more on plant-based omega 3's)

There are many undesirable compounds you won't be missing when you replace fish in your diets, such as PCBs, environmental dioxins, mercury, and other heavy metals that creep up the food chain via a process called bioaccumulation. The bigger the fish (like tuna), the higher the toxicity to those who consume them. (Click here for more info on fish toxicity)  

This is where jackfruit comes in. There are others such as the heart of palm and banana blossom when accompanied by sea flavours such as capers, seaweed, and many others. These flavours help create fantastic fish substitutes that provide the flavour and texture of fish without harming the oceans or your body.

Is Jackfruit The Next Big Meat Substitute?!

Jackfruit is a large fruit that originates from India and is grown all over the tropics. Jackfruit inside its massive exterior contains sweet yellow bulbs that remind me of the taste of the bubblegum I enjoyed as a kid. When ripe, the jackfruit bulbs are used in sweet desserts or eaten raw. When the fruit is unripe, the inside flesh of the jackfruit can be used in savoury dishes, and it is often found tinned and in brine. This tinned young jackfruit in brine is what I'll be using for this recipe.

Chickpea Pasta Makes It A High-Protein Meal!

Yes! Chickpeas can be made into pasta! In this recipe, I'm using chickpea pasta as pictured above to make my jackfruit "Juna" pasta recipe. It is made with chickpeas, so it is naturally free from egg, dairy, nuts, and gluten. It's a great source of fibre, protein and great for those that experience bloating with wheat products, as many of us do, and would benefit from having less wheat in their diet.

This recipe is super simple, high in protein, and suitable for the entire family to enjoy. Jackfruit is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be flavoured in many ways. With its meaty texture it can complement any meal from curries, chili, and now with this "Juna". I've recreated this meal as it is reminiscent of what I would sometimes have as a kid; however, this version is much healthier and kinder without the use of tuna fish.

The jackfruit juna can be served on it's own, so instead of making a pasta bake why not serve your Juna in a sandwich, wrap, or pita bread. Try serving it with your favourite salad, or in lettuce cups. It's so delicious it's hard not to just eat it like this, straight out of the bowl!