Scalloped Cheese Breadfruit: A Taste of the Islands

The first time I tasted scalloped breadfruit, it was at a lively Sunday brunch in Barbados. The air buzzed with chatter, calypso music, and the aroma of spices. Amidst the colourful spread of dishes, this unassuming bake caught my eye. Its golden, bubbling surface hinted at the cheesy treasure hidden within, and the first bite was pure comfort – a creamy, subtly sweet, and savoury delight that instantly transported me to paradise. It was island comfort food at its finest, and I knew I needed to recreate it back home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• ½ breadfruit, peeled, cored, and sliced into 6 chunks
• ¼ cup butter
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• Nutmeg, grated, to taste
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Buttered casserole dish

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

2. Next, prepare the breadfruit. In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced breadfruit and cook until tender. This typically takes about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a fork easily pierces through the pieces. Drain the breadfruit well.

3. While the breadfruit is cooking, prepare the onions. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they are softened and golden brown. This will bring out their natural sweetness. Remove the cooked onions from the saucepan and set them aside.

4. Now it’s time to make the cheese sauce. To the same saucepan, add the flour. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.

5. Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken into a smooth sauce. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

6. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well-seasoned. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Assemble the scalloped breadfruit. In a buttered casserole dish, create layers of the cooked breadfruit, sautéed onions, and cheese sauce. Begin with a layer of breadfruit, followed by a layer of onions, and then a generous pour of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of the cheese sauce on top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to set slightly.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Breadfruit Ripeness: Choose a breadfruit that is slightly soft to the touch but not overly ripe. An unripe breadfruit will be too starchy, while an overripe one will be too sweet.
• Preventing Lumps: When making the cheese sauce, ensure the milk is added slowly and the mixture is constantly whisked to prevent lumps from forming. If lumps do occur, you can use an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce.
• Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the sauce. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar would all work well.
• Bacon Addition: For a richer, more savoury dish, add a layer of cooked, crumbled bacon between the breadfruit and cheese sauce layers.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the scalloped cheese breadfruit warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main course. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated. For longer storage, the scalloped breadfruit can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	253.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	153 g	60%
Total Fat	17 g	26%
Saturated Fat	10.7 g	53%
Cholesterol	51.5 mg	17%
Sodium	213.1 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	18.4 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	2.1 g	8%
Sugars	5.2 g	N/A
Protein	8.4 g	16%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives into the cheese sauce for added flavour.
• Vegan Version: To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based butter, the milk with unsweetened almond or soy milk, and the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Tropical Touch: Add diced pineapple or mango to the layers for a tropical twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen breadfruit for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen breadfruit. Be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before using it in the recipe.

Q: How can I tell if the breadfruit is cooked properly?
A: The breadfruit is cooked properly when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. It should not be mushy or too firm.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the scalloped breadfruit ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: What if my cheese sauce is too thick?
A: If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavour profile. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda would all work well.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped Cheese Breadfruit is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey to the islands, a taste of sunshine and warm breezes. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of breadfruit for yourself. Don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch and share your creations with friends and family. Serve with a rum punch for the full Caribbean experience!