Papaya Juice

The papaya is the fruit of a large, tree-like plant called Carica Papaya, which is actually native to the American tropics. It was actually first cultivated in Mexico for a few hundred years before it spread out to other lands and cultures. An adult plant can grow to be about 30 feet tall with 7-lobed leaves that are 25 inches in diameter and bearing fruit that is most ripe when it feels soft and a bit like an avocado. The fruit itself is typically eaten raw, but without the amber skin and black seeds.

Many cultures have learned that papaya meat can be cooked and used in stews, curries, and salads, although it is probably most often consumed raw. The seeds are edible as well, often ground down and substituted for black pepper in some cultures because of their sharp and spicy taste. Along the same lines, you can also eat the leaves of the tree, which are like spinach, as well as the latex of the tree, which is used more as a cooking agent. In fact, in some areas of the world, papaya leaves are thought contribute to the prevention of malaria. Similarly, the fruit is often recommended for the aid of digestion problems.

Papaya has a mildly sweet and floral taste, which makes it ideal in tropical and exotic drinks. Whether you like to fruit punches or fresh fruit smoothies, this fruit can add a delectably succulent complexity because it has a strong flavor that is not overpowering. Similarly, it is quickly becoming a fresh ingredient of choice in a number of hand-made cocktails currently being developed in bars and lounges around the world. Similarly, it makes a fabulous addition to classic drink recipes, bringing them into the realm of current mixology. This includes classics like daiquiris, margaritas, Blue Hawaiians, and particularly the Mai Tai.