Pulpy and sweet, papaya is one of the most loved fruits. It boasts several health benefits and is liked by kids and adults. It is a common practice to consume only the flesh and discard its black seeds but do you know that the latter is just as beneficial and versatile? Yes, you read that right! Papaya seeds are a nutritional powerhouse and can be used to increase the nutritional profile of your everyday dishes. With its peppery, slightly bitter taste, they can add a unique twist to your diet. Intrigued? Read on to learn how you can include papaya seeds in your diet.
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Is It Good To Eat Papaya Seeds?
Yes! Papaya seeds, which are often discarded, are packed with many health benefits that can provide nourishment to your body. Since papaya seeds are packed with antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, including these in your diet can help you fight flu and infections. These seeds are high in fibre, so if you suffer from constipation, it can help clear your digestive system and keep your weight in check. Moreover, papaya seeds are packed with healthy monosaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can help reduce high levels of bad cholesterol.
How Do You Prepare Papaya Seeds For Consumption?
Papaya seeds are the size of peppercorns. You can consume them directly or in powder form. To make a powder from papaya seeds, dry them in an oven at a low temperature for at least three hours. Grind them in a blender or use a mortar and pestle for the same. Use this powder in your salads, yoghurts or any dish of your choice.
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Here Are 5 Ways To Include Papaya Seeds In Your Diet
1. Papaya Seed Smoothies
If you are a fan of smoothies, then papaya seeds can increase their nutritional profile. You can add fresh or dried papaya seeds to your drink. The peppery taste of these seeds pair well with sweet fruits like mangoes, bananas and berries. Blend until it's smooth for a nutritious breakfast or snack that supports digestion and provides you with loads of antioxidants.
2. Papaya Seed Salad
Amp up your regular salads with a homemade papaya seed salad dressing. The seeds' spicy kick can add a unique twist to your greens. To make a papaya seed dressing, blend a tablespoon of papaya seeds with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey and a dash of salt. Drizzle it over your favourite salads for a burst of flavour and added health benefits.
3. Papaya Seed Yoghurt Topping
Adding papaya seeds to your yoghurt can be a great and effective way to include them in your diet. The seeds' crunchy and peppery flavour pair nicely with the creamy and tangy yoghurt. All you have to do is sprinkle a tablespoon of crushed papaya seeds over a bowl of yoghurt, add a little bit of honey and top it up with fresh fruits like grapes, mangoes, berries and bananas. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious meal as a snack or a breakfast.
4. Papaya Seed Pepper Substitute
Papaya seeds have a peppery flavour. Papaya seeds can be dried and ground to use as a substitute for black pepper. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and dry them in the oven at a low temperature until they have completely lost all moisture. Grind them using a grinder or mortar and pestle. You can use this powder instead of black pepper in your recipes.
5. Papaya Seed Detox Drink
Instead of throwing away papaya seeds, make yourself a deliciously detoxifying drink that can help your liver and kidneys. Take a tablespoon of papaya seeds with a glass of water, a dash of lemon juice, and a teaspoon of honey. Drink this concoction once a day to detoxify your body naturally.
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How else can you include papaya seeds in your diet? Let us know in the comments below!