Dominica Stuffed Breadfruit
A hearty and flavorful dish where a whole breadfruit is hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture, typically of seasoned ground meat, and then baked until tender. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a substantial side.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 large Breadfruit(about 2-3 lbs)
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 0.5 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Thyme(fresh, chopped)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Water(for the roasting pan)
- 0.5 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced (optional, adjust to heat preference))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
💡 Tip: Ensure oven is fully preheated before placing the breadfruit inside. - 2
Wash the breadfruit. Slice off the top with the stem and carefully scoop out the core and seeds, creating a cavity for the filling. Be careful not to puncture the sides.
💡 Tip: A melon baller or a sturdy spoon works well for scooping out the core. - 3
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- 4
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional minced Scotch bonnet pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions are softened and the mixture is fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- 6
Stuff the meat mixture into the cavity of the hollowed-out breadfruit. Place the removed top piece of breadfruit back on like a lid.
💡 Tip: Pack the filling firmly but avoid overstuffing. - 7
Place the stuffed breadfruit, stem-side up, on a rack in a roasting pan. Add 1/4 cup of water to the bottom of the pan.
💡 Tip: The water helps create steam and prevents the bottom from scorching. - 8
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30 minutes.
- 9
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, or until the breadfruit is fork-tender.
💡 Tip: Check the water level in the pan periodically and add more if needed. - 10
Let the stuffed breadfruit rest for a few minutes before carefully removing the top and serving.
💡 Tip: Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Choose a firm, mature breadfruit for the best texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use shredded chicken or a mixture of ground meat and vegetables as the filling.
- Add a splash of rum to the meat filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a side of hot sauce or a simple green salad.