1. Where does it come from?
Pawpaw is a North American Indigenous fruit, which used to play an important role in the diet of the First Nations. Naturally grown from Texas all the way to Southern Ontario, its scientific name, Asimina triloba, is derived from the Algonquin language of the Shawnee people. Abandoned at the start of the 20th century, it was eclipsed by the mass commercialization of the banana, then viewed as the newest trendy food to discover. Nicknames such as “Kentucky banana” and “poor man’s banana” illustrate well this fascinating part of its history.
2. What does it taste like?
The taste of this flavourful fruit is often described as a combination of banana, mango and pineapple, with a subtle hint of vanilla. However, it’s not possible to purchase this fruit, as it’s still rare to find it at the grocery store. Luckily, some people took it upon themselves to grow pawpaw here in Quebec and organize workshops for people to discover it. Otherwise, you can try to grow one in your garden in order to get a taste of this unique local fruit.
3. How do I use it?
Pawpaw is delicate and very fragile when ripe, so it needs to be consumed immediately or added to a recipe to prolong its use. When puréed, it can be added to desserts like breads, pies, ice cream or smoothies. Its creamy, custardy and fragrant flesh is great for replacing bananas in your favourite recipe, or it can simply be enjoyed by the spoonful.
4. Is it good for me?
Pawpaw is a highly nutritious fruit, comparable to bananas, but it contains significantly more iron and magnesium. Certain Indigenous communities have traditionally included it in their diets. While not all traditional uses have been confirmed by modern science, pawpaw remains a valued part of their culinary heritage and a testament to the deep connection between First Nations and nature.
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