Papaya is sweet and pulpy and is one of the most loved fruits. It has numerous health benefits and is loved by kids and adults alike. It is a common practice to eat just the pulp and discard the black seeds, but did you know that the black seeds are equally beneficial and versatile? Yes, you read it right! Papaya seeds are packed with nutrients and can be used to add nutrition to your everyday meals. With their tangy, slightly bitter taste, they can add a unique flavour to your meals. Want to know more? Read on to find out how you can incorporate papaya seeds in your diet.
Also read: 3 Papaya Face Packs for Dry, Oily and Normal Skin
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Is it good to eat papaya seeds?
Yes! Papaya seeds, which are often thrown away, are packed with many health benefits that can provide nutrition to your body. Since papaya seeds are rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, including them in your diet can help you fight flu and infections. These seeds are high in fiber, so if you suffer from constipation, it can help cleanse 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 as big as black peppercorns. You can eat them directly or in powder form. To make papaya seed powder, dry them in a low temperature oven for at least three hours. Grind them in a blender or use a mortar and pestle. Use this powder in your salad, yogurt or any dish of your choice.
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5 ways to incorporate papaya seeds into your diet
1. Papaya Seed Smoothie
If you are fond of smoothies, papaya seeds can boost their nutritional value. You can add fresh or dried papaya seeds to your drink. The peppery flavour of these seeds goes great with sweet fruits like mangoes, bananas and berries. Blend it until it is smooth for a nutritious breakfast or snack that aids digestion and provides you with plenty of antioxidants.
2. Papaya Seed Salad
Make your regular salad even tastier with homemade papaya seed salad dressing. The spicy flavor of the seeds can add a unique twist to your veggies. To make a papaya seed dressing, mix a tablespoon of papaya seeds with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey and a little salt. Pour it over your favorite salad for flavor and health benefits.
3. Papaya Seed Yogurt Topping
Adding papaya seeds to yogurt can be a great and effective way to include them in your diet. The crunchy and peppery flavor of the seeds pairs well with the creamy and tangy yogurt. All you need to do is sprinkle a tablespoon of crushed papaya seeds over a bowl of yogurt, add a little honey and top it with fresh fruits like grapes, mangoes, berries and bananas. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious food as a breakfast or snack.
4. Papaya Seeds Chilli Substitute
Papaya seeds have a peppery flavor. Papaya seeds can be dried and ground and used as a substitute for black pepper. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and dry them in a low-temperature oven until all the moisture is completely evaporated. Grind them using a grinder or mortar and pestle. You can use this powder in place of black pepper in your recipes.
5. Papaya seed detox drink
Instead of throwing away papaya seeds, make yourself a delicious detoxifying drink that can help your liver and kidneys. Take a tablespoon of papaya seeds with a glass of water, a drop of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey. Drink this mixture once a day to detox your body naturally.
Also read: This brilliant trick will make the aroma and taste of papaya better
How else can you incorporate papaya seeds into your diet? Let us know in the comments below!
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