Caribbean Chinese Breadfruit Balls

Ingredients

In the original Jamaican Breadfruit Balls, the breadfruit is typically seasoned with Jamaican spices and herbs, such as thyme and scotch bonnet peppers. However, in this adaptation to Caribbean Chinese cuisine, we incorporate Chinese spices and seasonings, such as ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. The cooking technique also differs, as the original recipe calls for baking the breadfruit balls, while the adapted version deep-fries them to achieve a crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Breadfruit Balls, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) mashed breadfruit 2 cups (400g) mashed breadfruit
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the mashed breadfruit, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously, until the mixture becomes firm enough to shape into balls.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Take small portions of the breadfruit mixture and shape them into balls using your hands.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the breadfruit balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the breadfruit balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Caribbean Chinese Breadfruit Balls hot as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Breadfruit — Make sure to use fully ripe breadfruit for the best flavor and texture. Boil or steam the breadfruit until tender, then remove the skin and mash it well before using in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can roll the breadfruit balls in breadcrumbs before frying.
• Adjust the amount of Chinese five-spice powder according to your preference for stronger or milder flavors.
• Serve the breadfruit balls with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of honey for a tangy and sweet contrast.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Chinese Breadfruit Balls as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the breadfruit balls on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce in small bowls or ramekins.