PAWPAW—AKA “False Banana”
Although native to North America, Pawpaw tastes very tropical and sweet, described as a custardy combination of mango, vanilla, pineapple, kiwi, and berries.
Many say that Pawpaw has a very faint aroma. However, the scent of ripe Pawpaw varies by the type and ripeness of the fruit.
Pawpaw has a (green) smooth skin and a (yellow/orange/white) creamy, custard-like flesh with many seeds.
Pawpaw is native to the United States. They’re found in the area from New York, south to Florida, and west to Texas.
Pawpaw is mostly eaten raw on its own or added to drinks and smoothies. Despite growing naturally, they aren’t sold in U.S. grocery stores because they’re highly perishable and delicate. Once picked, they must be eaten within 3-5 days at room temperature. Therefore, they’re difficult to transport.