Paw Paw Fruit

Picking up Paw Paw's and put them in my pocket are the words to a favorite children's song. Although I remember the song I really never knew what a Paw Paw was until now. Last week I received a package in the mail from my son and daughter - in - law from the Ozarks. Inside I found several green / brown fruit that looked similar to avocados but turned out to be ...Paw Paw Fruit!!! The inside of the Paw Paw is bright yellow with large black seeds. The soft pulp taste like a combination of banana and mango and was delicious. After a little research I discovered Paw Paw's grow from Tennessee up to Canada. They can be found in the wild, often along streams in the woods and have a short harvest season. Paw Paw fruit last a few days after harvest and are best eaten fresh. The Plaid Apron Cafe in Knoxville had a Brunch Special last week featuring French Toast Stuffed with Paw Paw. Yum. I have also heard of Paw Paw pie, which used the fruit in a custard similar to Pumpkin Pie. For now I am drying my Paw Paw seeds. I will plant a few to see what happens and the rest I think I will string them into a necklace!!! Way Down Yonder in the Paw Paw Patch ...