Spiced Green Papaya Jam
Desserts

Spiced Green Papaya Jam

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 13, 2026

This luscious green papaya jam is warmly spiced with cinnamon and cloves, transforming a humble tropical fruit into an irresistible sweet preserve. Simple to make and wonderfully fragrant, it's perfect served chilled with a dollop of cream. A budget-friendly exotic dessert that brings bold flavors straight to your table.

Prep⏱️ 30 min
Servings👥 6 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

6 servings

6
  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) green papaya
  • 500 g (2½ cups) white sugar
  • 4–6 whole cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Cold water for soaking

Directions

  1. 1

    Peel and finely grate the green papaya. Submerge in a bowl of cold water and soak for 24 hours, changing the water every 4 hours at least 6 times to remove bitterness and natural latex.

  2. 2

    Drain the grated papaya thoroughly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen cloth or cheesecloth.

  3. 3

    Transfer to a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the sugar, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the jam reaches your desired consistency (30–45 minutes).

  4. 4

    Remove the whole spices. Spoon into serving glasses and let cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Serve well chilled with whipped cream or crème fraîche.

💡 Chef's Tip

For a brighter flavor, add a strip of lime zest while cooking. The longer you cook, the firmer the jam will set. Test doneness by dropping a small amount onto a cold plate — it should gel slightly.