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Monday 18 August 2008

Papaya



The papaya is most often found in countries with a tropical climate and as such is easily found in Malaysia. I’d say, very quickly, that the papaya ranks as one of my favourite fruits. The papaya is usually eaten, without the skin and seeds of course, although it can also be made into a juice. The fruit is high in vitamins C and A and also contains a large number of minerals. The papaya is well regarded in many cultures and is well known for promoting digestion as well as good bowel movement. The fruit (and other parts of the plant) contains an enzyme that helps break down protein and this is why, traditionally, the leaves and fruit are sometimes used as a meat tenderiser.

In Malaysia, the unripe papaya fruit is sometimes sliced thinly and then pickled to make a delicious snack. This is also often served as an appetizer in restuarants. Other times the fruit is dried or even candied.

To me, nothing beats a slice of freshly cut ripe papaya. Maybe chilled pieces of papaya eaten with ice cream or lightly dressed with sweet ginger syrup. Whichever way you choose to eat it, Papaya is one delicious fruit!

8 comments:

Valerie Harrison (bellini) said...

Fresh juicy ripe papaya is probably not something we can get here..but I still enjoy it when I can:D

Judy@nofearentertaining said...

Papaya is way up there on my favorite list too! Nothing beats a nice fresh one!

Valerie Harrison (bellini) said...

Once again Dharm papaya ROCKS! I have passed a little something your way. You can pass it along it you wish or just covet it knowing you are appreciated.

Meeta K. Wolff said...

one of my fave fruit. i gre up on the stuff and am so heart broken at the tiny things we get here in Germany!!!

Nikki @ NikSnacks said...

It was brought to my attention, that papaya seeds are edible. They don't have the greatest texture, but when added in small amounts, like a garnish, they're quite nice. They're hard, peppery and sweet. I used them on a cucumber and papaya salad with lime, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Different, but good.

Katie said...

I like papaya drizzeled in a little fresh lime juice. It really adds a nice zing.

Thistlemoon said...

I LOVE LOVE LOVE papaya! It is hands down my favorite fruit - in fact I am enjoying some for breakfast right now! I do love it with ice cream too! :)

Alicia Foodycat said...

I love green papaya in salads but there is something about the smell of ripe papaya that rubs me up the wrong way. Such a shame, because when I see a picture like that I really want to like it!