The Golden Fruit of Malnad – Jackfruit and Its Many Delights

In Malnad, summer is not just a season — it’s a celebration of abundance, and the humble jackfruit is its king. Growing freely across the region, the jackfruit tree is part of every home, standing tall and generous through the years.

From tender jackfruit curries and crispy fritters to papads, chips, and even sweet dosas, every stage of the fruit has a story in Malnad kitchens. Women here use every bit of the fruit — even the seeds — transforming them into hearty curries and roasted snacks.

The beloved jackfruit papad, thin and sun-dried, is made every summer in homes across the hills. It’s more than food — it’s a tradition, a skill passed down through generations. Once fried or roasted, its aroma fills the air, often paired with coffee or a simple meal of rasam and rice.

From pickles to desserts, jackfruit connects the people of Malnad to their roots — a symbol of self-sufficiency, care, and creativity that defines this region’s soul.