Jackfruit Spaghetti Dump & Bake

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.

Ancient Grains Making a Come Back!

Spelt pasta is sourced from one of the oldest cultivated grains, and an ancient cousin of wheat. Spelt is a high-quality and low GI pasta that has been shown to have positive effects on blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Compared to wheat pasta, spelt has a higher concentration of magnesium, zinc and iron - all of which are essential for maintaining optimum health.

Although it's not gluten-free, spelt is a great source of fibre, with a higher content of protein and vitamins than wheat and great for those that experience bloating with wheat products, as many of us do, and as such may find benefit from having less wheat in their diet by opting for alternatives such as spelt.

Spelt is often tolerated by some people with wheat allergies, but spelt can be harmful for people with celiac disease or other forms of gluten intolerance. People with these allergies should consume spelt with caution as cross-contamination may occur during manufacturing.

What is Dump and Bake Pasta?

Dump and bake pasta is a method of cooking pasta where all the ingredients are combined in one pot and then baked in the oven. This allows you to spend less time in the kitchen cooking and more time relaxing and enjoying your meal. The ingredients in this dish are quick and easy to find at your local grocery store, which makes this meal simple and delicious.

Some benefits of using this technique is that it saves you time because you don’t have to cook the pasta separately from the other ingredients, and the finished dish is fast and easy to put together. You can also include whatever kind of toppings you like for your meal, which makes it very versatile. It’s also a great way to get your whole family involved in the kitchen because it involves some very basic cooking techniques.

This dump and bake pasta is simple, yet delicious and will surely become your next favourite pasta dish! This recipe is perfect for those times when you don’t have a lot of time to cook, or when you’re looking for a quick, but healthy meal!

This jackfruit pasta bake uses spelt spaghetti and it is as easy as adding all the ingredients to a casserole dish and baking it in the oven. This is the perfect dish to make for family and friends and it couldn’t be easier!

This meal can be served hot from the oven or served cold as a leftover. It’s wonderful served with a big salad and some garlic bread on the side!

 Jackfruit Spaghetti Dump & Bake Recipe