What can you do with a paw-paw (Asimina triloba)? Paw Paw ice cream, shakes, baked goods, puddings, salad, and even in liquors, this fruit resembles a subtly sweet banana. The paw paw was traditionally mashed and made into cakes or dried as preserves. You can make jams, smoothies, quick breads, and pastries. The green pawpaw is an excellent substitute for squash or cherimoya.
Jardín Malinalli (28th & Ridgeway) in Little Village, Chicago
It is a bit tricky in terms of availability and when you pick its fruit is key. A lot of fruit from paw paws sadly get discarded especially in the city. Fully ripe paw paws last only a few days at room temperature, but may be kept for a week in the refrigerator. If fruit is refrigerated before it is fully ripe, it can be kept for up to three weeks, and can then be allowed to finish ripening at room temperature. I have not made anything from a paw paw yet, but a quick google search will lead you results to many recipes to experiment with. When I find one that I want to share, I will publish it soon.