How to Freeze Fresh Papaya (for Smoothies Etc.)
Do you like to use papaya in smoothies? Next time your local grocery store has a special on fresh papaya, it makes sense to buy a little extra and freeze it for later use in smoothies. It is also good to have frozen papaya on hand if you have one of those frozen fruit dessert makers that turn frozen fruits into healthy mock ice cream. However, as the freezing and thawing processes change the texture of papaya, it is not recommended that you freeze papaya if you plan to eat the papaya pieces whole because they will turn mushy when you thaw them.
The best way to freeze papaya for later use in smoothies and frozen treats is to first pre-freeze papaya cubes individually, and once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers which you can then pop back into the freezer for long-term storage. Freezing papaya this way ensures the papaya stays in single pieces, and you won't have to pry the pieces apart when you need to grab just a few for use in your culinary creations.
For detailed instructions on how to freeze papaya, and ideas on how you can use frozen papaya, keep reading.
How to Freeze Papaya
- Create a level area in your freezer to fit a spare baking sheet.
- Line the baking sheet with a freezer-safe silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
- Peel the papaya and remove the seeds. Cut the fruit into bite-sized cubes.
- Arrange the cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet, and cover with plastic wrap. Pre-freeze overnight.
- Next day, take the baking sheet out of the freezer and lift the edges of the baking mat or parchment to dislodge the fruit pieces. Using a spatula, transfer the papaya cubes to heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers (freezer-safe glass containers are great if you are trying to reduce your exposure to BPA).
- Seal and label the bags or containers, and pop them in the freezer until you are ready to use your frozen papaya.
What to Do with Frozen Papaya?
Frozen papaya becomes mushy and watery when it thaws, but it still tastes good and is perfect for smoothies. To whip up a yummy smoothie featuring frozen papaya, simply put slightly thawed frozen papaya cubes along with other smoothie ingredients in a high-powered blender, and blend until smooth.
If you have a frozen fruit dessert makers such as Yonanas or Dessert Bullet, another great way to use up a stock of frozen papaya is to turn it into guilt-free sorbet. All you need to do is place a serving bowl under the dispenser, turn on the machine and feed some slightly thawed frozen papaya pieces into the chute. Within seconds, your Yonanas or Dessert Bullet will start extruding your healthy dessert directly into the serving bowl.
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