Question 1

What is breadfruit called in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Breadfruit is called 'del' (දෙල්) in Sinhala. It is widely grown in Sri Lanka's wet and intermediate zones and is a familiar ingredient in village cooking, particularly in the south and west of the island.

Question 2

Is Artocarpus altilis used in Ayurvedic medicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Artocarpus altilis is formally included in Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic plant catalogue. The leaves, latex, roots, and fruit are each attributed with different medicinal properties, including support for blood pressure management, skin conditions, and respiratory health in traditional practice.

Question 3

How do you cook breadfruit Sri Lankan style?

Accepted Answer

The most common preparation is del curry, where unripe breadfruit is cooked with coconut milk, turmeric, green chillies, and Sri Lankan curry spices. It can also be boiled and mashed, deep-fried as chips, or dried and ground into a gluten-free flour.

Question 4

What is the difference between breadfruit and jackfruit?

Accepted Answer

Both belong to the Artocarpus genus but are distinct species. Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is generally smaller, seedless in its cultivated form, and has a smoother skin, while jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is much larger and has a spiky exterior. Their flavours and culinary applications differ, though both are used as starchy vegetables when unripe.

Question 5

Is breadfruit nutritious?

Accepted Answer

Breadfruit is a good source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, potassium, vitamin C, and several B vitamins. Its relatively moderate glycaemic index compared to refined grains, combined with its fibre content, makes it a valued functional food in both traditional and contemporary nutrition contexts.

Question 6

Can you eat dehydrated breadfruit as a snack?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dehydrated breadfruit slices can be eaten directly as a snack, rehydrated for use in cooking, or ground into flour for baking. The drying process concentrates the flavour and significantly extends shelf life without requiring preservatives.

Question 7

Where in Sri Lanka does breadfruit grow?

Accepted Answer

Breadfruit trees are most common in Sri Lanka's wet zone and intermediate zone, particularly in the low-country coastal and mid-country regions. They are a frequent feature of traditional home gardens across the south, west, and northwest of the island.

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