How to Make Jackfruit Upperi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Jackfruit Upperi, known locally as 'Chakka Upperi', is a beloved vegetarian side dish from the heart of Kerala cuisine. Made with tender raw jackfruit (chakka), coconut, and a blend of traditional South Indian spices, this dish is a staple in Onam Sadya feasts and everyday Kerala lunches. The unique texture of jackfruit, combined with the nutty aroma of coconut and the subtle heat of green chillies, creates a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Jackfruit Upperi is more than just a flavorful curry – it reflects the agrarian roots and culinary ingenuity of Kerala households. Using minimal oil and fresh, local produce, this dish is naturally wholesome and ideal for anyone seeking healthy Indian lunch recipes. It is often served alongside steamed rice, sambar, and curd, making it a complete and nourishing meal. Whether enjoyed during festivals like Onam or as part of a simple home-cooked meal, Jackfruit Upperi brings an authentic taste of South India to your plate.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Peel
Peel, core, and dice the raw jackfruit into bite-sized cubes. Soak in salted water for 5 minutes to remove stickiness.
Step 2 · Boil the jackfruit with turmeric powder
Boil the jackfruit with turmeric powder, salt, and water in a deep vessel until just tender (about 10 minutes). Drain excess water.
Step 3 · Grind grated coconut and green chillies together into a coarse past...
Grind grated coconut and green chillies together into a coarse paste without adding water.
Step 4 · Heat coconut oil in a kadhai or heavy-bottomed pan
Heat coconut oil in a kadhai or heavy-bottomed pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
Step 5 · Add curry leaves and the cooked jackfruit cubes
Add curry leaves and the cooked jackfruit cubes. Stir-fry for 2 minutes on medium heat.
Step 6 · Mix in the coconut-green chilli paste and red chilli powder (if using)
Mix in the coconut-green chilli paste and red chilli powder (if using). Toss gently to coat jackfruit evenly.
Step 7 · Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes
Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust salt as needed. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and packed with plant-based nutrients. It uses coconut oil, which is a heart-healthy fat, and relies on fresh, local ingredients without any deep-frying or processed additives. Jackfruit Upperi is a smart choice for anyone seeking a balanced, wholesome Indian lunch recipe.
A note on tradition
Jackfruit Upperi is a signature dish in Kerala's Onam Sadya, a grand vegetarian feast served during the harvest festival of Onam. It is also popular in Tamil Nadu and coastal Karnataka, where jackfruit is abundant. Traditionally, Upperi is made during the summer months when raw jackfruit is in season, and is enjoyed as a nutritious, filling side dish with rice.