Most of us don't have the chance to enjoy Papayas right off the tree.To get a taste of the tropics, learn how to find ripe store-bought fruit.If you can only find green papayas, they can be ripe in a few days.
Step 1: The color should be checked.
The skin of a ripe papaya can be yellow, orange, or red.There are a few green spots that are fine.
Step 2: Press the skin.
You can gently press the papaya.If the fruit is ripe, your fingers should sink into it.A hard papaya is not ripe.Papayas with soft flesh near the stem end are overripe.
Step 3: Check the base for mold.
The stem was attached to the base of the papaya.Don't buy this papaya if you see mold.
Step 4: You can smell the base.
There is a scent near the stem of a papaya.The unripe papayas have no smell.Papayas may be old or have a strong smell.
Step 5: Papayas can be stored in the refrigerator.
Papayas can be kept in the refrigerator to slow ripening.They are best eaten within a day or two.
Step 6: Papayas can be stored at room temperature.
If your papayas are green, ripening them at room temperature is the best way to go.They should be ripe in a few days.One way to speed it up is to leave them on a flat surface with space between fruits.Don't be in the direct sun.Sometimes, it is necessary to vary occasionally.In a dark place, keep them in a paper bag.Adding a banana, apple, oravocado will speed up ripening.
Step 7: Ripen the green papayas.
A green papaya won't mature off the tree.If you don't have any other options, you can give it a try.Score your green papaya with a sharp knife, drawing three lines from tip to tip.The knife should penetrate the skin and score the flesh underneath.Within a few days, leave the room at room temperature.Green papaya can be used for recipes such as green papaya salad.
Step 8: The papaya should be frozen.
You should freeze the extras if you have more than you know what to do with.To minimize mushiness and flavor loss, peel a ripe papaya.Remove the stem end.Cut in half.Place the papaya on the baking sheet.It's best to freeze for an hour or two.Transfer frozen slices to a sealed container.You can freeze the liquid in ice cube trays and transfer it to a larger container.