How to Eat Pawpaw: Preparing, Cooking and Introducing Kids to the Fruit

Introduction

Pawpaw is a tropical fruit that is native to Central America and parts of North America. It has a sweet and creamy taste, similar to a combination of banana and mango. Pawpaw is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. Eating pawpaw can help to boost your immune system, improve digestion, and even reduce inflammation.

How to Prepare Pawpaw for Eating: A Step-by-Step Guide

Following these steps will ensure that you get the best out of your pawpaw when eating it.

Step 1: Choose the Best Pawpaw

When selecting a pawpaw, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a yellowish-green color. Ripe pawpaws should give slightly when pressed. Avoid ones that have soft spots or bruises, as these may be signs of overripe or decaying fruit.

Step 2: Store and Ripen Pawpaw

If the pawpaw is not yet ripe, store it at room temperature until it gives slightly when pressed. Once it is ripe, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Step 3: Peel and Cut Pawpaw

The easiest way to peel a pawpaw is to use a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut the pawpaw into slices or cubes for eating.

Five Delicious Recipes Using Pawpaw

Now that you know how to prepare pawpaw for eating, here are five delicious recipes you can make with the fruit.

Recipe 1: Pawpaw Salsa

This salsa is perfect for serving with chips or tacos.

• 1/2 cup diced pawpaw
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until combined. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Recipe 2: Pawpaw Smoothie

A refreshing and nutritious smoothie that is perfect for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.

• 1/2 cup diced pawpaw
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately.

Recipe 3: Pawpaw Salad

This simple salad is a great way to incorporate pawpaw into your diet.

• 2 cups cubed pawpaw
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until combined. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Recipe 4: Pawpaw Popsicles

These popsicles are perfect for a summer treat.

• 2 cups diced pawpaw
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for at least four hours before serving.

Recipe 5: Pawpaw Muffins

These muffins are a delicious way to start your day.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup diced pawpaw
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, yogurt, pawpaw, walnuts, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tins. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.

Introducing Kids to Pawpaw: Easy Ideas for Fun and Healthy Snacks

Kids often need some convincing to try new foods, but pawpaw is sure to be a hit with its sweet and creamy flavour. Here are some easy ideas for introducing kids to the fruit.

Kid-Friendly Pawpaw Smoothies

Smoothies are a great way to get kids to eat their fruits and vegetables. Just add a few pieces of pawpaw to your favourite smoothie recipe and voila! You’ve got a delicious and nutritious drink that your kids will love.

Pawpaw Popsicles

Popsicles are always a hit with kids. Use the pawpaw popsicle recipe above and let your kids enjoy a cool and refreshing snack on a hot summer day.

Pawpaw Salad

Salads don’t have to be boring. Let your kids help you make the pawpaw salad recipe above and they’ll be sure to enjoy it.

Pawpaw Muffins

Muffins are a great way to get kids to eat their fruits and vegetables. Whip up a batch of pawpaw muffins using the recipe above and your kids will be sure to love them.

Conclusion

Eating pawpaw can be a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. With its sweet and creamy flavour, it’s sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a creative way to incorporate pawpaw into your meals, there are plenty of options to choose from.