In Brazil, food waste is a worrying issue, especially when we consider the amount of nutrients that are discarded along with fruit peels. In the case of papaya peel, this waste is even more significant, as it contains three times more protein, in addition to greater amounts of phosphorus and fiber than the pulp itself. In this post, we will show you how to transform papaya peel into a delicious sweet treat, taking advantage of all the benefits of this nutritious and often neglected part of the fruit.
Why Use Papaya Peel?
Fruit peels, especially papaya peels, are rich in nutrients that can significantly supplement our diet. Discarding them not only represents a nutritional loss, but also contributes to the accumulation of organic waste, which harms the environment, especially in countries like Brazil, where composting is not yet a widely adopted practice.
Papaya peel has a high fiber content, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. In addition, the presence of phosphorus and proteins makes this part of the fruit an excellent ally in maintaining a balanced diet. Incorporating papaya peel into recipes is a practical way to avoid waste and enrich your diet with essential nutrients.
Papaya Peel Jam Recipe
Making a sweet treat with papaya peel is simpler than it seems, and the result is a delicious homemade product that can be eaten on its own or used as a side dish in desserts and snacks. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients
- Peel of 6 ripe papayas, well washed
- 3 and ½ cups (tea) of sugar
Preparation Method
First, soak the papaya peels in water overnight. This process helps to soften the peels and makes it easier to prepare the jam.
The next day, chop the peels into small pieces. Place them in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Repeat this boiling process three times, adding new peels each time. This helps to eliminate any bitterness and softens the texture of the peels.
On the fourth boil, let the peels cook for 10 minutes. Then let it cool and blend everything in a blender, adding a cup of water. This step is essential to obtain a homogeneous consistency.
Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove any coarse pieces that were not crushed properly. Bring the sieved mixture to a boil with the sugar, stirring constantly until the candy begins to separate from the bottom of the pan. This is a sign that the candy is ready.
Benefits of Consuming Papaya Peel
Including papaya peel in your diet goes beyond making full use of the food. Regular consumption of this ingredient brings numerous health benefits, thanks to its rich and diverse nutritional profile.
The high concentration of fiber in papaya peel is one of its greatest benefits. Fiber helps regulate intestinal transit, preventing problems such as constipation. In addition, fiber is important for controlling blood cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health.
Another important benefit is the presence of antioxidants in papaya peel. These compounds help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are associated with premature aging and the development of chronic diseases.
Recipe Variations and Other Ways to Use Papaya Peel
In addition to making papaya peel jam, there are other creative ways to use this part of the fruit. For example, you can use papaya peel to make a refreshing and digestive juice. Simply blend one cup of chopped papaya peel, three cups of water, and five tablespoons of sugar in a blender. After straining the mixture, add the juice of four oranges and one lemon for an extra touch of flavor.
Another interesting variation is to use papaya peel in jams or jellies, combining it with other fruits to create unique and surprising flavors. These preparations are ideal for breakfast or to accompany a slice of fresh bread.
Tips to Minimize the Impact of Pesticides
Many people are afraid of eating fruit peels due to the presence of pesticides. However, it is possible to adopt some practices that help minimize this impact and make eating peels safer.
One of the main recommendations is to opt for organic fruits whenever possible. Organic foods are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, which significantly reduces exposure to these substances.
Another tip is to wash the fruit thoroughly under running water and then soak it in a solution of water with vinegar or baking soda. This technique helps to remove some of the pesticide residues present on the surface of the fruit.
Sweeten Life with Sustainability
Papaya peel candy is a perfect example of how we can transform what would otherwise be discarded into a delicious delicacy. In addition to avoiding food waste, this practice contributes to a healthier and more conscious diet, aligned with the principles of sustainability.
By incorporating papaya peel and other unconventional parts of food into your recipes, you’re doing more than just saving money: you’re taking care of your health and the planet. Try this and other recipes and discover how you can sweeten your life with creativity and responsibility.
Check out other interesting facts about recycling clicking here.
Learn how to make art by recycling, Click here.
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