Papaya Seeds

The fresh black seeds of the tropical papaya, native to Central and South America and taken to Europe by the Portuguese, have a peppery flavour similar to mustard cress. They include papain, an enzyme that breaks down meat fibres and activates digestion, and are used primarily in marinades as a meat tenderiser. The seeds can also be dried and ground, and are used in South America and Indonesia in the making of kebabs and koftas or in salad dressings. Papaya seeds are also used medicinally in India. Available: look for fresh papaya in greengrocers; dried seeds can be found in Asian food stores.