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.
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
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:
- Paypaya? How to eat it – what it tastes like – and facts
- Mamey? Mamey Sopate? How to eat it – where to find it – and facts
- Guanábana? Soursop? How to eat it – what it tastes like – and facts
- Dragon Fruit? Pitaya? What it tastes like – how to eat it – and facts
- Jocote? Mombin? How to eat it – what it tastes like – and facts
- Loquat? How to eat it – what it tastes like – and facts
Share the papaya love by offering up your own delicious or creative ways of enjoying this fruit!