Have you ever cut open a honey-sweet Cempedak, enjoyed the golden fruit, and then looked at the pile of large seeds left behind? Most people toss them, but in South East Asia, the "Aunties" at the wet market know better—these seeds are a hidden superfood!
As an Australian living in the tropics, I was shocked to learn that these seeds aren't just edible; they are incredibly creamy, starchy, and taste like a cross between a roasted chestnut and a potato.
In this guide, I’m sharing how to prep them and three of my most viral ways to eat them (including my 2.4 million view chocolate spread!).
Why You Should Never Throw Away Cempedak Seeds
Aside from reducing food waste, Cempedak seeds are nutritional powerhouses. They are:
- High in Fiber: Great for gut health.
- Rich in Minerals: Specifically Zinc and Iron.
- Low GI: A steady source of energy compared to processed flours.
How to Prepare Cempedak Seeds (The Basics)
Before you can use them in recipes, you need to remove the tough outer shell.
1. The Boiling Method (Best for Spreads & Creams)
- Place seeds in a pot and cover with water.
- Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until fork-tender.
The Secret: Drain and let them cool slightly. The white outer shell will "pop" off easily, leaving the edible brown-skinned seed inside. (Yes, the thin brown skin is edible!)
2. The Roasting Method (Best for Snacking)
- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
- Toss seeds in a little coconut oil and sea salt.
- Roast for 20 minutes until the shells crack.
- Peel and eat them warm like chestnuts!
Watch: The Best Way to Open a Cempedak
Before you get to the seeds, you have to get through that sticky skin! I’ve learned a few tricks to make this process mess-free. You can watch my step-by-step video here:
IG Reel: How to Cut Open a Cempedak
My 3 Viral and Creative Cempedak Seed Recipes
1. Dairy-Free Cempedak Seed Chocolate Spread
This is the recipe that went viral on Instagram! It’s the perfect "Healthy Nutella" alternative. Because the seeds are so naturally creamy, you don't need much added oil.
• Dairy Free Chocolate Spread Recipe With Cempedak Seeds
2. The Cempedak Spice Latte
Forget Pumpkin Spice—this is the tropical version. I use the boiled and blended seeds to create a thick, "frothy" base that is naturally high in fiber. This is another semi viral cempedak seed recipe on my Instagram.
3. Vanilla Cake Icing With Cempedak Seeds
This is one of my most unique creations and a true "secret ingredient" recipe. Because boiled cempedak seeds have such a custard-like, buttery texture when blended, they make a decadent, starchy base for frosting without needing heaps of heavy cream. It’s the perfect way to add a tropical twist to any dessert. Again, this is a popular cempedak cake recipe I made for my Instagram followers!
Going Zero-Waste: Have You Tried Mandai?
If you really want to cook like a local, we can’t talk about Cempedak without mentioning Mandai. This traditional fermented dish uses the inner skin (the "mandai") and is a beloved hometown favorite in Borneo and across the region.
Want More Cempedak Recipe Inspiration?
I’ve spent years experimenting with every part of this incredible fruit—from the golden, honey-sweet flesh to the versatile, buttery seeds. If you want to explore more, including my Cempedak Pie, Cempedak Seed Icecream, and Cempedak Icecream, head over to my full Cempedak Recipe Category Hub.
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