A luscious Cape Verdean papaya preserve slow-cooked with sugar, cinnamon, and cloves until thick and amber, spread on bread or eaten by the spoonful.
Nutrition & Info
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: small glass jar
Garnishes: cinnamon stick
Accompaniments: crusty bread, goat cheese
Instructions
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1
Combine papaya cubes and sugar in a heavy saucepan. Let sit 30 min to macerate.
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2
Add water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
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3
Reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring frequently, for 45-60 min until thick and amber-colored.
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4
Remove cinnamon stick and cloves.
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5
Pour into sterilized jars while hot. Seal and let cool completely.
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6
Spread on bread, crackers, or serve alongside cheese.
Did You Know?
Cape Verdean grandmothers judge the readiness of doce de papaia by dropping a spoonful onto a cold plate — if it wrinkles when pushed, it is perfect.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- heavy saucepan
- wooden spoon
- sterilized jars
Garnishing
cinnamon stick
Accompaniments
crusty bread, goat cheese
The Story Behind Doce de Papaia
Doce de papaia reflects the Portuguese tradition of fruit preserves adapted to Cape Verde's tropical fruits. Papaya grows abundantly across the islands, and turning it into preserves allowed families to enjoy the fruit year-round. It remains a beloved homemade specialty.
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