papaya

Papaya

Papaya, also known as pawpaw in some regions, is a tropical fruit celebrated for its vibrant orange flesh and subtly sweet flavor. The fruit features a smooth, green to yellow skin that encases juicy, succulent flesh. Ripe papaya offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while unripe papaya has a firmer texture often used in savory dishes. Searching for a healthy and delicious addition to your diet? Discover the benefits of fresh papaya, a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory culinary creations. Explore papaya nutrition and discover how to incorporate this exotic fruit into your meals.

Common Uses

  • Adds a tropical sweetness to fruit salads, offering a vibrant color and juicy texture. Looking to enhance your fruit salad? Try adding diced papaya for a unique flavor boost.
  • Blended into smoothies and juices for a creamy consistency and a dose of vitamins. Want a healthy and delicious smoothie? Papaya is the perfect ingredient!
  • Used in savory dishes like green papaya salad (Som Tum), providing a crisp texture and slightly tangy flavor. Searching for an authentic Thai experience? Green papaya salad is a must-try!
  • Grilled or baked as a side dish, offering a caramelized sweetness and tender texture. Thinking of grilling something different? Grilled papaya is a surprisingly delicious side.
  • Pureed into sauces and chutneys, adding a fruity sweetness and vibrant color. Need a unique sauce for your next dish? Papaya puree adds a tropical twist.
  • Used as a meat tenderizer due to its papain enzyme, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat dishes. Want to tenderize meat naturally? Papaya is a great solution!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

39.0kcal (1.95%)

Protein

0.6g (1.22%)

Carbs

9.8g (3.57%)

Sugars

7.8g (15.64%)

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C for immune support and antioxidant protection.
  • Excellent source of Vitamin A, promoting healthy vision and skin.
  • Contains digestive enzymes like papain, aiding in protein digestion and reducing bloating.
  • High in fiber, supporting healthy digestion and promoting satiety for weight management.
  • Good source of potassium, contributing to healthy blood pressure.
  • May help reduce inflammation due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Storage Tips

Unripe papayas should be stored at room temperature until they ripen. Once ripe, indicated by a slight softness and yellowing of the skin, store them in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process and extend their shelf life for up to a week. Cut papaya should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Papaya can also be frozen. To freeze, peel and dice the papaya, then lay the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for longer storage, up to 8 months.

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