How to Cut Caribbean Red Papaya

Caribbean red papaya is larger than traditional papaya.

Papaya is a tropical fruit which originated in the Central American region. The fruit was spread to tropical regions around the world by Spanish explorers who "discovered" and distributed papayas throughout their long sea journeys. Papayas can help improve digestion thanks to their high vitamin and enzyme content and are also reported to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. Caribbean red or Maradol papaya are larger than other breeds and can weigh up to 5 lbs. There are several easy ways to cut and eat your Caribbean red papaya.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Clean dish
• Serving spoon
• Teaspoon or tablespoon
• Clean towel
• Paper towels
• Paring knife or potato peeler
• Melon baller

Instructions

1. Wash your Caribbean red papaya by rinsing with clean water and drying with a clean towel or paper towel.

2. Cut your Caribbean red papaya down the center lengthwise using your sharp knife to form two large halves. Scoop out the round seeds in the center of the fruit using a large serving spoon and scrape out any unwanted seed residue, leaving just edible papaya behind. Use a melon baller to scoop out and serve the meat of the fruit or use a spoon to eat the papaya as is.

3. Cut your halved and cleaned papaya into 1-inch-wide slices. Eat the papaya in the same manner you would a melon slice, leaving the skins behind.

4. Peel your Caribbean red papaya using your paring knife or potato peeler. Slice the peeled papaya into whatever shape you require. Remove the seeds before serving.

Tips & Warnings

• The seeds of a Caribbean red papaya can be chewed for their spicy flavor.

• Papaya contains high levels of latex and can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to that substance.

References

• Brooks Tropicals: Caribbean Red Papaya
• Produce Geek: Maradol Papaya
• Melissa's: Maradol Papaya
• California Rare Fruit Growers: Papaya Fruit Facts
• WH Foods: Papaya
• Drugs.com: Papaya

Resources

• You Tube: How to Slice a Papaya