Jackfruit is part of the fig family and is widely cultivated throughout the tropical regions of the world. The ripened fruit has a sweet flavor and is commonly used in desserts, sauces, and frozen meals. Immature or unripen jackfruit has a neutral taste which tends to take on the flavor of whatever seasoning is added to it and has a similar texture and consistency to pork and chicken, so it is commonly used in vegetarian and vegan meals as a meat substitute.