Pawpaw

   We went to the woods looking for paw-paw.  Not grandpa, but pawpaw.

And we found them.  This is the season for them to ripen; some had fallen on the ground and others were still hanging on the tree.
   The pawpaw tree is the largest edible fruit tree native to North America.
The tree has dark green foliage and a tropical appearance. You’ll know the fruit is ripe if some have fallen on the ground.  They should be soft  and may be light green to a shade of brown.  Similar to a banana.

 
   Pawpaws provided delicious and nutritious food for Native Americans, European explorers, settlers and wild animals.  They have a tropical flavor and are best eaten out of hand.  The flesh should be soft and the fruit should have a strong, pleasant aroma.
   Fully ripe they will last only a few days; They may be stored in the frig, or the pulp may be frozen.  We made a delicious smoothie by adding frozen strawberries and apple cider to the pawpaw pulp.
   They compare favorable with bananas and apples nutrition wise.
   Young trees are available from nurseries, but you need to plant 2 varieties for cross pollination.
   Do not confuse pawpaw with papaya; two different species.
   Now is the time to take your trip to the woods.