How to Dry Papaya Seeds

Papayas are a versatile type of melon that are incredibly healthy. They vary in flavor from having a slightly musky taste to even being slightly peppery.

People enjoy them in smoothies, cut up on their own as a snack, or in a variety of dishes.

One part of the papaya that’s frequently discarded is the seeds.

These small black seeds are edible though and have a unique flavor! They’ve been enjoyed by people around the world but are often thrown away. In fact, some people think that they’re poisonous!

The good news is that these seeds are full of nutrients and flavor.

They can be enjoyed in a variety of ways so what are you waiting for?

If you don’t know how to dry and use them, this should get you started.

How to Dry Papaya Seeds in the Oven 

Once you have your papaya seeds removed from the fruit, rinse them to remove any fruit sticking to your seeds. Make sure to dry the seeds well to allow for faster drying in the oven.

Preheat your oven to 120°F (49°C).

• Using a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface.
• Place the seeds on the tray and spread them out evenly.
• Bake the seeds in the oven for about 90 minutes or until they’re dried.
• Stir them occasionally to allow for even browning.
• Allow the seeds to cool before storing or using.

If you want to dehydrate papaya chunks, check out the tutorial at that link!

How to Use Dried Papaya Seeds

The seeds have a flavor that’s similar to mustard and peppercorn, almost like a mixture of both. This allows them to be enjoyed both on their own or like a spice once ground.

You can even use them as a substitute for black pepper.

When using fresh papaya seeds, you can eat them along with the fruit, which has incredible benefits. The fresh seeds can also be refrigerated and ground to add to smoothies, salads, or even soups.

They’ll last for about a week when kept cool.

One the seeds are dried, they’re best enjoyed by being ground into a powder. You can use a food processor for easy grinding.

Once you grind the seeds, use them as a seasoning for meat or enjoy them with salads and soups. They add a unique flavor to these foods so they’re a great way to add some new flavors to your meals.

Using dried papaya seeds on their own is an option, but they also make a great addition to flavor rubs.

Make a mix of the seeds, pepper, sea salt, and garlic. You can also make your own rub with preferred spices and massage the flavor to ribs, chicken, or other meats before cooking.

Finally, you can bake with the ground papaya seeds.

They add a slightly spicy flavor so start off with just a small amount. Add one or two teaspoons along with the other spices to muffins, banana bread, or spice bread for the best results.

How to Store Dried Papaya Seeds

You can store your papaya seeds much in the same way as you would store any other spice. They store well in an airtight container. In order to keep their flavors fresh, it’s best to store the seed whole and then grind what you need along the way. The seeds can last for several years if kept in a cool, dry place. If you notice any mold growing on the seeds, discard them immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are papaya seeds good for?

The seeds contain antioxidants which are great for liver function and overall health. They also have antimicrobial products which aid in improving your immune system function.

The seeds are a good source of fiber and may improve overall gut function.

Can I eat papaya seeds raw?

Yes, the seeds can be enjoyed raw without any preparation. Make sure to try a seed before adding it to any foods or dishes. The flavor can be overpowering in large doses so adjust as needed.

What are the side effects of eating papaya seeds?

There are no known negative side effects of eating papaya seeds although you might have some digestive distress if you have too many at any one time.

Start by using them in moderation for the best results.