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Papaya? What it tastes like – how to eat it – and facts

The papaya, a.k.a., the papaw

The papaya is now pretty much considered a mainstream fruit, BUT…

Believe it or not, we know some big-time fruit fans who still don’t take advantage of it. They either don’t know how good it is, or they don’t know how to pick one. 

What we know about the papaya

The papaya, a.k.a., papaw is considered a superfood because it’s packed with vitamin C and it can help with reducing swelling.
Here are some lesser known facts about this commonly seen fruit.

Where the papaya comes from

The papaya made its journey to Miami from Mexico and South America but grows in subtropic climates and can be found everywhere from the Sunshine State to California and in places like Indonesia and Thailand.

What papaya tastes like

Papaya kinda tastes like a melon but not as sweet. Plus, did you know you can eat the seeds? (Just a few, not all at once!) They’re a little spicy (like black pepper) and are sometimes ground up to be used as spices in curries.

Where to find papaya in the 305

Any grocery store. But for a really great papaya, head to the Robert is Here fruit stand (not an advertiser, we just really love their fruit!) in Homestead. 

how to eat papaya and what does papaya taste like
Photo credit: Estúdio Bloom

Facts about the papaya

The plant that grows the papaya can be male, female or have organs from both genders. And actually, the plants often pollinate themselves.

Did you know that it is used around the world as a folk remedy for contraception and abortion?

Firm papayas can be cooked and served like squash or sweet potatoes.

How to eat a papaya

Slice it up and pair it with your morning pancakes or just eat it straight.

Tips on how to eat a papaya

How to eat papaya and what does papaya taste like
Photo credit: Ilyuza Mingazova

Don’t love the smell? Squeeze a wedge of lime on it.

For more tips on how to prepare all kinds of papaya-based treats, check out this piece from Miami Herald food writer Linda Bladholm.

Want more fruit? Check out:

Share the papaya love by offering up your own delicious or creative ways of enjoying this fruit!