One of the most important things to look for when determining if a pawpaw fruit is ripe is its texture. When the fruit is fully ripe, it will give slightly when you touch it, just like a ripe peach. You should be able to feel the flesh yielding under your fingers. If the fruit feels firm and unyielding, it is likely not yet ripe.
Another way to tell if a pawpaw fruit is ripe is by examining its appearance. Ripe pawpaws will have indentations or soft spots where your hands have touched the fruit. These indents are a good sign that the fruit is ripe and ready to be enjoyed. However, it’s important not to squeeze the fruit too hard, as this can cause bruising and damage.
In addition to texture and appearance, the aroma of a pawpaw fruit can also indicate its ripeness. When a pawpaw is fully ripe, it will emit a sweet and fragrant aroma. If the fruit has a strong, pleasant smell, it is likely ripe and ready to be eaten.
When harvesting pawpaws, you should be able to pluck the fruit easily from the tree if it is ripe. Just like raspberries, ripe pawpaws will come off the tree with minimal effort. If the fruit requires a lot of force to remove, it may not be fully ripe yet.
It is worth noting that pawpaws do not continue to ripen once they have been picked. Therefore, it is important to wait until the fruit is fully ripe before harvesting. If you pick the fruit too early, it may not develop its full flavor and sweetness.
In my personal experience, I have found that the best way to determine if a pawpaw fruit is ripe is by using a combination of the above indicators. By gently touching the fruit to feel its texture, examining its appearance for soft spots or indents, and taking a whiff of its aroma, you can get a good sense of its ripeness. It may take some practice and trial and error, but with time, you will become more confident in identifying ripe pawpaws.
