papaya

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  green papaya

what is it?

Papayas are luscious tropical fruits with smooth green or greenish-yellow skin. The flesh of papayas ranges from yellow-orange to salmon-toned, and tastes peachy-apricoty, with a musky note. Unripe or green papayas, which have a crunchy texture and sweet-tart flavor, are often used in savory salads and curries in Southeast Asian cuisines.

how to choose:

Ripe papayas range in color from green to yellow and everywhere in between. A mottled, spotty look is okay, as long as the papaya feels heavy for its size. A ripe papaya should give when pressed; it should feel a little softer than a mango.

If a recipe calls for green papaya, look for one that is completely green on the outside and firm to the touch (the flesh may still be creamy yellow; see photo above).

how to prep:

Ripe papayas are best eaten raw. Scoop out the dark seeds, peel off the skin, and cut the papaya into slices or chunks.