Jackfruit Powder Benefits, Uses & How to Add It to Your Diet

Raw jackfruit has been eaten across South and Southeast Asia for centuries — as a vegetable, a meat substitute, and a staple during lean seasons. Jackfruit powder takes that same raw jackfruit, dries it, and grinds it into a shelf-stable flour that you can add to rotis, porridges, smoothies, and curries. It’s not a supplement — it’s an ingredient with a long culinary history and a nutritional profile that holds up to scrutiny.

What Is Jackfruit Powder? (Regional Names)

Jackfruit powder is made from unripe (raw) jackfruit that is sliced, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Raw jackfruit is starchy and savoury, not sweet.

• Tamil: பலாப்பழம் (Palaa pazham) — raw: பலாப்பழ காய் (Palapazha kaai)
• Telugu: పనసపండు (Panasapandu)
• Malayalam: ചക്ക (Chakka)
• Kannada: ಹಲಸು (Halasu)
• Hindi: कटहल (Kathal)

Nutritional Profile of Jackfruit Powder

Benefits of Jackfruit Powder

1. High Dietary Fibre

Jackfruit powder contains approximately 8–10g of dietary fibre per 100g — significantly more than wheat flour (~2.7g) or white rice flour (~1g). Fibre supports healthy digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain steady energy levels.

2. Low Glycaemic Index

Raw jackfruit has a glycaemic index of approximately 50–55 (low-to-medium), causing a slower rise in blood sugar compared to refined flours. For more on low-GI foods, see Is Karupatti Good for Diabetics?

3. Naturally Gluten-Free

Jackfruit powder contains no gluten — a suitable flour alternative for those with gluten sensitivity. It can partially replace wheat flour in rotis, dosas, and baked goods.

4. Good Source of Plant Protein

With approximately 5–6g of protein per 100g, jackfruit powder contributes meaningfully to daily protein intake, particularly in plant-based diets.

5. Contains Potassium and B Vitamins

Raw jackfruit is a natural source of potassium and B vitamins including B6 and folate, supporting normal nerve function and cell formation.

6. Traditionally Used as a Staple

Across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, jackfruit was historically called the “poor man’s fruit” — recognition that it sustained communities through lean agricultural seasons. Drying it into powder was a traditional preservation method that extended its shelf life through the year.

How to Use Jackfruit Powder

As a Flour Substitute (Rotis)

• Replace 20–30% of wheat flour: 1 cup wheat flour + ¼ cup jackfruit powder + water
• Cook on tawa as normal — slightly denser with an earthy flavour
• Start with 20% and increase to taste

As a Porridge (Kanji)

• Mix 2 tbsp in 250ml warm water or milk, stir over low heat 3–4 minutes
• Sweeten with karupatti (palm jaggery) and a pinch of cardamom

In Smoothies

• Add 1–2 tbsp to any smoothie — blends well with banana, mango, or coconut milk

In Curries

• Use as a thickener: 1 tbsp dissolved in water, added to curry base or sambar

Storage

Airtight container, cool dry place. Use within 6 months of opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is jackfruit powder made from?

Unripe (raw) jackfruit — sliced, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Starchy and savoury, not sweet.

What is jackfruit powder called in Hindi?

Jackfruit is kathal (कटहल) in Hindi. The powder is called kathal powder or kathal atta.

Can jackfruit powder replace wheat flour?

Partially — best as a 20–30% replacement in rotis. Cannot fully replace wheat flour in gluten-dependent recipes. For fully gluten-free baking, combine with ragi or rice flour.

Is jackfruit powder the same as jackfruit flour?

Yes — both refer to the same product: dried, ground raw jackfruit.

How much per day?

2–4 tablespoons (20–40g) is reasonable. Increase gradually and drink adequate water.

Does it taste like jackfruit?

Mildly. Raw jackfruit has a neutral, slightly earthy flavour — very different from the sweet ripe fruit. Blends well into rotis, porridges, and curries without dominating.

Shop Jackfruit Powder from Theerthaa

Sourced from traditional farms, dried without additives, ground to a fine powder.

Also read: 9 Traditional Tamil Rice Varieties Worth Bringing Back to Your Kitchen · Which Millet Should You Start With?

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making dietary changes.