Papaya

Description

Papaya is a large fruit with smooth, green-yellow skin and juicy, orange flesh with a soft, creamy texture. The taste is sweet with a subtle hint of exotic musk, and inside are black, shiny seeds with a peppery flavor that can be removed or used. A ripe papaya yields slightly to pressure and emits a pleasant, fruity aroma. Papaya is low in calories and rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, potassium, and the enzyme papain, which aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. In the kitchen, it works well fresh in salads, smoothies, salsas, and desserts, as well as an ingredient in marinades for meat due to its tenderizing properties; it is suitable for juices, chutneys, and grilling. Unripe fruits should be stored at room temperature to ripen, while ripe ones can be kept in the refrigerator for 3–4 days; cut papaya should be kept in an airtight container and the pulp can also be frozen.