Papaya is a fruit grown from the trunk of a tree-like plant commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. The fruit is oblong in shape, with a narrow neck at the stem, and ranges in size, depending on the variety, from 6 inches to 20 inches long, weighing up to 20 lbs. It has thin, greenish-yellow skin when ripe, with a central cluster of small, dark brown or black seeds and firm, juicy flesh in colors from yellow to deep orange to red. The flavor of papaya is sweet, musky, melon-like and frequently reminiscent of a cantaloupe.
Step 1
Select a papaya that is ripe. Look for fruit that is light green to yellow in color and with a skin that gives slightly when pressed.
Step 2
Wash the papaya with soap and water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Rinse the fruit thoroughly, and dry it completely.
Step 3
Cut the papaya lengthwise with a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and connective membrane in the center of the fruit with a spoon, leaving the flesh within the skin. Rinse the inside of the fruit to remove any of the remaining membrane.
Step 4
Scoop the flesh of the papaya out of the skin with a spoon or a melon baller, and use it as is, if you choose. To peel the thin skin of the papaya, use a vegetable peeler or small knife. Cut the papaya into slices or chunks.
Things You'll Need
- Sharp knife or vegetable peeler
- Spoon
- Melon baller
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