Papaya Seed Dressing From Mama'S Fish House, Maui

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: Hawaiian

A vibrant papaya seed dressing with tangy tarragon vinegar, onion, and a hint of spice, perfect for salads or seafood dishes, appealing to those seeking bold, tropical flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. papaya seed
  • 1 small purple onion, chopped fine
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 1 c. salad oil
  • 1 c. tarragon vinegar
  • 1 tsp. MSG (optional)
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • dash of Tabasco sauce

Instructions

  1. In blender or food processor, blend papaya seed until the size of ground pepper.
  2. Add chopped onion and blend until well mixed.
  3. Add sugar, salad oil, tarragon vinegar, MSG (optional), salt, dry mustard, and a dash of Tabasco sauce.
  4. Blend all ingredients well until smooth.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the best texture, ensure you blend the papaya seeds until they resemble ground pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing the amount of Tabasco sauce. You can also substitute tarragon vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. For a vegan version, simply omit the optional MSG and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

This papaya seed dressing pairs beautifully with leafy green salads, grilled fish, or as a marinade for chicken. Consider serving it alongside Hawaiian Harvard Beets for a vibrant meal. Drizzle over roasted vegetables or use as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls to elevate your appetizers.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week. If the dressing thickens in the fridge, simply give it a good shake or stir to return it to its desired consistency before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Papaya Seed Dressing From Mama'S Fish House, Maui contains roughly 448 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1262mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).

448 kcal 22% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 42.8g 55% DV
Carbs 19.1g 7% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 13.1g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1262.3mg 55% DV
Potassium 135.8mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 49.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 7.7mg 9% DV
Calcium 19.1mg 1% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of vinegar instead of tarragon vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute tarragon vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose based on your preference. If you opt for apple cider vinegar, it will offer a slightly sweeter taste that complements the papaya seeds well.

Is it necessary to use MSG in this recipe?

No, MSG is optional in this dressing. If you're sensitive to MSG or prefer to avoid it, feel free to omit it. The other ingredients, particularly the onions and vinegar, will still provide a delicious flavor without it.

What can I serve with this dressing?

This dressing is fantastic on salads, especially those featuring tropical fruits or grilled proteins. It also works well as a dipping sauce for fresh vegetables or shrimp. For a full meal, pair it with grilled fish and a side of quinoa or brown rice.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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