Barbados Roasted Breadfruit (Loaded), also known as "Stuffed Breadfruit," is a beloved dish from Barbados. This Caribbean delight involves roasting a ripe breadfruit until it reaches a tender, slightly sweet state, then loading it with sautéed onions, bell peppers, bacon bits, and grated cheese for a hearty, flavorful meal. Breadfruit, introduced to the Caribbean by Captain Bligh in the late 18th century, is a versatile staple that can be roasted, fried, boiled, or baked. Its creamy texture and mild sweetness make it an ideal base for savory toppings. Nutrient-rich, breadfruit offers dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamins, while bacon and cheese add protein and calcium, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.

Here is a step-by-step method for making Barbados Roasted Breadfruit (Loaded):

Ingredients:

1- 1 ripe breadfruit

2- 1 onion, diced

3- 1 bell pepper, diced

4- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

5- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese

6- Salt and pepper to taste

7- Olive oil

Method:

1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2- Using a sharp knife, make several small slits in the breadfruit to allow steam to escape during the roasting process.

3- Rub the breadfruit with a little olive oil and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4- Roast the breadfruit in the preheated oven for 60-90 minutes, or until it is tender when pierced with a fork.

5- While the breadfruit is roasting, prepare the toppings. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they are tender and lightly browned.

6- Once the breadfruit is roasted, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.

7- Cut the breadfruit in half and remove the core and seeds.

8- Use a fork to mash the inside of the breadfruit and season with salt and pepper to taste.

9- Divide the sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture between the two halves of the breadfruit, followed by the crumbled bacon and grated cheddar cheese.

10- Return the loaded breadfruit halves to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11- Remove from the oven and allow the breadfruit to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Note:

This recipe can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. You can add or substitute other toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, cooked chicken or shrimp, or any other ingredients that you enjoy.

Nutrition Value:

1. 1 ripe breadfruit:

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits:

• Rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
• Good source of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which help boost the immune system and protect against disease.
• Contains potassium, which is essential for heart health and regulating blood pressure.

2. 1 onion, diced:

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.
• Provides prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting digestive health.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

3. 1 bell pepper, diced:

• Calories: 24
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• High in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
• Good source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health and immune function.

4. 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled:

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g

benefits:

• Provides protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Contains B vitamins, such as B12, which are important for energy production and neurological function.
• Rich in saturated fats, which, when consumed in moderation, can contribute to hormone production and cell membrane function.

5. 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese:

• Calories: 455
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 37g

benefits:

• Good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and muscle function.
• Contains protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Provides vitamin K2, which is important for bone and cardiovascular health.

6. Salt and pepper to taste:

• Negligible calorie contribution

7. Olive oil:

• Calories: 119 (per tablespoon)
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 14g

benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that may reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.
• Contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which help protect cells from damage.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to overall skin health.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brand and preparation method.

Barbados Roasted Breadfruit (Loaded) is a nutritious and filling meal that is perfect for any time of day. It is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious choice for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.