Nine ways to eat a … what? That’s right, a pawpaw! It is North America’s largest indigenous fruit you’ve never heard of. Affectionately titled the “poor man’s banana,” pawpaw is PACKED with more potassium than a banana and three times more vitamin C than an orange, according to Modern Farmer.
Not convinced to try them? Maybe these recipes will change your mind.
Pick a Pocket Full of Pawpaws: Sure to be the Hottest New “it” Fruit
1. Straight up raw.
Any pawpaw fan will tell you that the best way to enjoy this adventurous produce is straight off the tree during peak season, which is mid-August through mid-October. With a custard-like texture and taste similar to mangoes, bananas, and melons, it’s no wonder eating the raw fruit is the way to go!
2. Pawpaw pie.
Think lemon meringue with a new twist. Combine pawpaw pulp (peeled and seeded) with sugar, milk, egg yolks, and flour to heat over the stove. Then top with whipped egg white meringue and bake for 12 minutes at 350. See the full recipe here.
3. A micro-brewery trend
Midwest microbreweries and distilleries are catching on to pawpaws and have introduced several craft beers and wines that incorporate the subtly fruity flavor. These pawpaw brews are most commonly found throughout Ohio and the Carolinas.
4. Super fruit cookies.
Packed with antioxidants and minerals, add pawpaw pulp to your standard sugar cookie recipe. We like the looks of pawpaw cookies with black walnuts for a savory, seasonal kick!
5. A baker’s dream.
There are endless ways to incorporate pawpaw into your favorite baked goods: cakes, quick breads, custards, muffins, you name it! Find a full list of options here.
6. Make it last! Pawpaw preserves.
Enjoy pawpaw season last a little longer by turning this adventurous fruit into pawpaw preserves. Many recipes suggest adding lemon and orange juice before canning.
7. Fruity frozen treat.
Consider adding pawpaw pulp into your favorite milkshake or fruit smoothie–a perfect addition to this Rainbow Smoothie. One or two tablespoons of pulp should suffice for two servings.
8. Poor-man’s banana pudding.
Make your favorite banana pudding recipe, except layer in pawpaw pulp instead of banana slices.
9. Gourmet toppings.
Pawpaw pairs perfectly with dairy products, so incorporating this fruit with a panna cotta or just spooning some over plain Greek yogurt is a simple and healthy treat.
Also Read:
How to Get Over Your Farmers Market Phobia
Why Every Fridge Should be Stocked with Beer
What’s Really in Your Favorite Pumpkin Treats
image via brewreviewcrew.com