How to Freeze Papaya

Papayas should be cut and seeded before being frozen

The papaya fruit is a delicious, healthy snack, which, when frozen can be enjoyed all year round, even when papaya is not in season. It is important when freezing papaya to begin with a fresh, juicy papaya, so its flavors survive the freezing process. The skin of fresh papayas will be green, turning to a dark yellow and will have bruise spots which can be easily removed. Once frozen, papayas can be defrosted and enjoyed, or served as a frozen treat.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Freezer bags
• Large spoon

Instructions

1. Seed and peel the papaya before freezing it. Cut the papaya in half lengthwise first, then pull it apart into two sections. Holding the papaya over a garbage can, scoop the seeds out with a large spoon. Don't apply too much pressure while scooping out the seeds, as this can remove part of the fruit. Hold the papaya vertically and cut the peel off in long, even strokes.

2. Place the skinned papaya halves on a cutting board and chop them into inch sized wedges using a knife. Alternately, you can slice horizontally across the fruit to create papaya wedges. Slicing the papaya into smaller pieces allows for easier freezing, defrosting and serving.

3. Place the papaya chunks or wedges into several freezer bags. Several chunks can go into one bag, as long as there is enough room for the papaya to freeze independently of other chunks and for the bag to seal tightly. Generally one papaya can fit easily into two freezer bags.

4. Squeeze any excess air out of the freezer bags, then seal the bags shut tightly. Proper sealing prevents freezer burn on the papaya.

5. Place the papaya in the freezer and allow to set overnight. Serve as a delicious frozen treat or store in the freezer until you want to defrost and serve it.

References

• Papaya Smoothie: Freezing Papaya