Tropical fruits are a major strong suit of Vietnam travel, and Vietnamese jackfruit belongs near the top of the list. It can be found almost anywhere and has found itself included in various dishes across the country. With this article, dig deeper into this unique fruit and find out where and how to enjoy the best jackfruit in Vietnam.

1. Things to know about Vietnamese jackfruit

Vietnamese jackfruit, known locally as "mít," is adored by locals and seasoned travelers alike, although it may seem quite bizarre if you are not familiar with it.

1.1. Origin and features of Vietnamese jackfruit

Vietnam jackfruit plant is a fruit tree native to India and has been around for thousands of years. On top of that, it has also been honored as the national fruit of Bangladesh, further supporting the long-running history of the plant as one of the most well-known Asian fruits.

It provides tremendous economic value while only demanding simple and straightforward techniques to maintain. On top of that, thanks to their South Asian origin, Vietnamese jackfruits are highly compatible with Vietnamese climates. All in all, the Vietnam jackfruit tree proves to be a highly beneficial investment, which explains its popularity.

Vietnamese jackfruits are characterized by their unique appearance. The oval-shaped and considerably large fruit has a green or yellow, thick, and spiky shell. Inside, you can find the flesh in the form of yellow to red pulps. You will first come across its bold aroma, then the tender texture, and lastly, the signature sweetness.

The jackfruit tree is about 4 to 15 meters tall. Generally, it can last for a long time with incredible fruit-bearing capabilities, potentially yielding up to 100 kilograms per tree per harvest. Jackfruit season in Vietnam is usually from April to July or August. In terms of where you can enjoy it, Vietnamese jackfruit is available almost everywhere across the country. However, Lam Dong, Binh Duong, or Dong Nai are your best bets, but the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta regions usually have a steady supply as well.

1.2. Popular types of Vietnamese jackfruit

Diversity is another aspect that draws many foodies to Vietnamese jackfruits, especially since each variety offers something unique. Here are the most popular types of jackfruit available in Vietnam:

Mit to nu (To Nu jackfruit): Weighing at about 3 kilograms, mit to nu offers a uniquely bold, sweet, and fragrant smell. Its pulps are large and full, with a bright yellow or orange color.
Mit Thai (Thai jackfruit): A quality Thai import, its trees are usually higher and produce bigger fruits, reaching 10 to 15 kilograms. The best traits of this jackfruit type are the thick pulps, crunchy texture, mild sweetness, and no sticky sap.
Mit khong hat (Seedless jackfruit): This is a popular type due to its convenience, as you can cut it open and enjoy the pulps.
Mit ruot do (Vietnam red jackfruit): As the name suggests, this Thai-native jackfruit sets itself apart from others with its lively red pulps. Additionally, red jackfruit is also the darling of Vietnam jackfruit farming thanks to its quick growth, therefore cutting down on the cultivating time for more harvests.
Mit nghe (Turmeric jackfruit): Originated from India, this variation earns its name from the vibrant color resembling turmeric. With thick and crunchy pulps, mit nghe is the preferred jackfruit type for many.

On average, each kilogram of Vietnamese jackfruit ranges from 10,000 to 23,000 VND. However, the exact price also depends on the quality of the fruit. Typically, they are sorted into types or class 1, 2, 3, and market jackfruit.

Vietnam jackfruit prices fluctuate frequently based on the market situation and the city where you are shopping. The average range above is only for reference purposes, and you should always ask the vendors about their prices before deciding to make any purchase.

1.3. Health benefits of Vietnamese jackfruit

Vietnamese jackfruits are also widely considered to be a healthy food. Containing various beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, jackfruits offer several noteworthy health benefits:

Improves heart health
Reduces inflammation
Supports weight loss
Promotes skin and bone health
Good for digestion
Stimulates milk secretion for pregnant women
Provides anti-cancer properties

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2. Applications of Vietnam jackfruit in local cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine utilizes many delicious, locally-grown ingredients. With their distinctive flavors and aroma, jackfruits tick all the boxes for a viable addition to delectable dishes and treats that you can enjoy during your trip, try cooking at home, or bring back as a souvenir.

2.1. Vietnamese jackfruit chips

Vietnamese jackfruit chips, also known as Vietnamese dried jackfruit, are a delicious and healthy snack made from ripe jackfruit. These chips enhance the unique flavor profile of jackfruits with a delightful, crispy texture. They are among the most popular snacks in Vietnam, having become an indispensable part of friendly hangouts, family gatherings, and even major occasions like Tet.

If you want to try this Vietnamese food in the comfort of your own home, it will not be a problem. Simply slice the jackfruit pulps into thin pieces and soak them in water with salt, sugar, and lime for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, pat or wring the pieces dry. Then, you can either bake them or toss them in a pan until dry and crispy, with extra sugar if you prefer to. Make sure to keep the temperature at a medium level to avoid burning the jackfruit.

Alternatively, you can also buy dried jackfruit chips from popular local Vietnamese brands like L’angfarm, Vinamit, or Nong Lam Food.

2.2. Vietnamese jackfruit smoothie

Vietnamese smoothies bring together a myriad of fruits and vegetables to create a refreshing and delicious beverage. Undoubtedly, Vietnamese jackfruits have made their way into countless glasses of smoothies across the country. You can easily find smoothie vendors on sidewalks anywhere in the country, ready to serve you a cold glass of smoothies featuring your favorite ingredients.

If you also want to share the unique flavors of jackfruit with your friends at home, simply add ripe jackfruit, milk, sugar, condensed milk, and any other ingredient you love into a blender. From there, you are just a few minutes away from a slushy and tasty glass of jackfruit smoothie.

2.3. Vietnamese jackfruit sweet soup

The lively realm of Vietnamese desserts is dominated by sweet soups, with jackfruit playing a prominent role. This Vietnamese jackfruit dessert presents a delightful bowl of diverse ingredients, boasting vibrant colors, contrasting textures, and refreshing flavors.

If you have a sweet tooth and want to try this delectable treat after your vacation to Vietnam, you will need to find the following ingredients: ripe jackfruit, green tea, flour, coconut milk, condensed milk, milk, and grass jelly.

This dish is extremely easy to prepare, as most of these ingredients can be store-bought, ready for immediate consumption. However, you can make some of the components at home if you are seeking new experiences. To start, make green tea tapiocas of your preferred flavor to add some chewy texture, and cook up some coconut milk mixture to enhance the richness of the sweet soup. Then, assemble all the ingredients in the same bowl and enjoy.

2.4. Vietnamese jackfruit sticky rice

Vietnamese sticky rice is as versatile as it can get, teetering on the line between savory and sweet dishes. In Vietnamese cuisine, rice is skillfully combined with numerous ingredients, and jackfruit, though seeming unconventional, is one of them.

The dish is incredibly simple, with only two main steps involved in this entire Vietnamese jackfruit recipe. First, soak the glutinous rice with some sugar and salt overnight. Afterwards, prepare a steamer and cook the soaked rice. Make sure to add some coconut milk right before it is done to infuse it with extra creaminess and further soften the rice. Once the sticky rice is fully cooked, serve it alongside sliced jackfruit and sprinkle on some white sesame seeds.

2.5. Vietnamese jackfruit salad with chicken

If you are already in awe of the diversity of jackfruit dishes, prepare to be even more surprised at the amazing incorporation of this fruit in savory creations, such as Vietnamese salad. These dishes are mostly served as appetizers, usually featuring various vegetables and a protein to combine many textures and flavors on one plate.

Chicken is one of the most compatible proteins with jackfruit in terms of texture and taste. For this jackfruit chicken salad, all you need to prepare is shredded chicken and jackfruit, roasted peanuts, fresh laksa leaves, and various spices and condiments.

The soul of most Vietnamese salad dishes is in the sauce, which is usually fish sauce-based. You can keep it simple by adding simple ingredients such as sugar, chili, vinegar, black pepper, and water.

Also, feel free to showcase your creativity by making substitutions in this dish. For example, you can replace chicken with pork belly for more richness or pig’s ears if you prefer the salad to have more crunch.

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3. Tips for choosing good Vietnamese jackfruit

To perfect the aforementioned recipes, you will need to learn how to choose good Vietnamese jackfruits. These following tips can be of help when you go shopping:

Check the spikes on the rind to see if they look uniformed.
The rind is turning from green to yellow.
Press lightly or pat the jackfruit; it should give slightly and make a firm sound.
Jackfruits have a fragrant and intense smell.
The pulps are smooth with a bright yellow color.

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4. Important notes for enjoying Vietnamese jackfruit

Much like any other food, there are some things to keep in mind regarding the consumption of Vietnamese jackfruit:

Jackfruit contains quite a lot of nutrients, so people with diabetes, a fatty liver, or compromised immune systems should eat it in moderation.
Do not eat jackfruit when hungry because its high sugar content can contribute to hyperglycemia.
Only eat about 3 to 4 pulps of jackfruit every day.
Pair jackfruit with other foods for a balanced diet.

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Vietnamese jackfruit has made its way into almost all aspects of Vietnamese cuisine thanks to its versatility, diversity, and health benefits. The fruit possesses a unique aroma and flavors that have impressed multiple visitors to the country. So, for your next trip, visit the many fruit gardens across the country to have a taste of jackfruits.

In fact, you can find Vietnamese jackfruits at countless fruit gardens, street food stalls, and restaurants around Vietnam. Visit the biggest destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, or Ha Long to uncover more surprises about Vietnamese cuisine and its mouth-watering ingredients.

For a great experience in Vietnam, you will need to find the most perfect accommodations. Look no further than the leading hospitality brand, Vinpearl, and its high-end hotels and resorts. The immense services and amenities will ensure that you are well taken care of during your time in the country. If you are looking for more activities, head to the VinWonders entertainment complexes, where incredible cultural experiences meet the most exciting themed games in the country.