Stewed Green Papaya
Stewed Green Papaya Recipe from Haiti with Butter and Nutmeg
Introduction
Stewed Green Papaya is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of the tender green papaya with butter and nutmeg creates a unique and flavorful dish that pairs well with stews.
History
Stewed Green Papaya is a traditional dish in many tropical countries where green papaya is abundant. It is often served as a side dish to complement hearty stews and meat dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp of butter
- a dash of nutmeg
- 1 medium-sized green papaya
- boiling salted water
How to prepare
- Peel and slice one medium-sized papaya that is very green.
- You should have approximately two cups of fruit.
- Place the sliced papaya into a pot of rapidly boiling salted water.
- Allow it to simmer for about half an hour, or until the fruit becomes tender.
- Drain the papaya well. This makes an excellent side dish to stews.
- Add 1 tbsp of butter and a dash of nutmeg.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Top with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use very green papaya for this recipe, as ripe papaya will not hold up well during cooking.
- Make sure to drain the papaya well after boiling to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Adjust the amount of butter and nutmeg to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Stewed Green Papaya alongside your favorite stew or meat dish for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the green papaya until tender is the key cooking technique for this recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions
Margarine or coconut oil can be used in place of butter.
- If green papaya is not available, you can use green mango as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
Stewed Green Papaya can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Stewed Green Papaya pairs well with dishes that have bold flavors, such as curries or braised meats.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Stewed Green Papaya contains approximately 80 calories.
Carbohydrates
Green papaya is a low-carb fruit, making this dish a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
The addition of butter adds richness and flavor to the dish. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
Green papaya is not a significant source of protein. Each serving contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Green papaya is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and magnesium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
Stewed Green Papaya is a low-calorie, low-carb side dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Summary
Stewed Green Papaya is a simple and flavorful side dish that is perfect for complementing a variety of main courses. With its low-carb and nutrient-rich profile, it is a healthy addition to any meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Stewed Green Papaya. It was many years ago, during one of my trips to the bustling market in the heart of the city. As I wandered through the crowded aisles, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of the fresh produce caught my attention.
I came across a vendor who was selling an abundance of green papayas. I had never cooked with green papaya before, but something about their crisp texture and mild flavor piqued my curiosity. I struck up a conversation with the vendor, an elderly woman with weathered hands and a kind smile. She told me that green papaya was a versatile ingredient that could be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stews.
Intrigued, I purchased a few of the green papayas and headed home to experiment in the kitchen. I spent hours chopping, simmering, and tasting, trying to unlock the secrets of this unfamiliar ingredient. Finally, after several failed attempts, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of flavors and textures that resulted in a delicious stewed green papaya dish.
The key, I discovered, was to simmer the green papaya in a savory broth flavored with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. The papaya soaked up the rich flavors of the broth, while still maintaining its crisp texture. I added some tender chunks of chicken and a handful of fresh herbs to round out the dish, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that was perfect for a chilly evening.
I was so proud of my creation that I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family. I invited them over for a dinner party, serving the stewed green papaya as the main course. The dish was a hit, with everyone clamoring for seconds and asking for the recipe.
From that moment on, stewed green papaya became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for special occasions and casual dinners alike, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. Over the years, I tweaked the recipe here and there, adding new ingredients and adjusting the seasonings to suit my taste.
One day, while visiting a small village in the countryside, I had the opportunity to learn a traditional variation of the stewed green papaya recipe. I met an elderly woman who had been cooking the dish for her family for generations. She welcomed me into her kitchen and graciously shared her secrets with me.
I watched in awe as she expertly peeled and sliced the green papaya, her hands moving with the precision and grace that only comes from years of practice. She added a few special ingredients to the broth, including a fragrant blend of spices that filled the air with a tantalizing aroma.
As the stew simmered on the stove, the woman regaled me with stories of her family and the traditions that had been passed down through the generations. She spoke of the importance of cooking with love and care, of taking the time to savor each step of the process.
When the stewed green papaya was finally ready, we sat down together at the table and enjoyed a simple but delicious meal. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, a perfect balance of sweetness, savory, and spice.
I left the village that day with a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking and a deep sense of gratitude for the connections that food can create. The stewed green papaya recipe that I had learned from the elderly woman became a cherished part of my collection, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.
And so, whenever I make stewed green papaya now, I think back to that day in the village and the kind woman who shared her recipe with me. I am reminded of the joy and fulfillment that cooking can bring, of the stories and traditions that are woven into every dish. And I am grateful for the journey that led me to discover this delicious and nourishing recipe, a true treasure that I will pass down to future generations.