One of Ann’s many island inspired recipes. Luperon Papaya Salsa
An Embarrassment of Mangoes is one of those books I’ve reread several times, each time delighting in a new part of Ann and Steve’s mid life island adventure.
An Embarrassment of Mangoes is Vanderhoof’s intimate account of this two year, mid life interlude during which they travel more than 7,000 nautical miles, drop anchor in sixteen countries (47 individual islands) and adapt to a new life on “island time.”
The book is filled with sailing adventures, real life challenges and moments of triumph over personal fear. The book delights the reader every step of the way with a real taste of caribbean life as Ann and Steve experience it over a two year period. Ann delights in the new island ingredients and creates island style recipes with her many new ingredients. The book is filled with outstanding recipes and tastes unique to the caribbean islands. I chose my personal favorite from “An Embarrassment of Mangoes” to include for my readers.
Luperon Papaya Salsa
1/2 large papaya diced
1 mango peeled and diced
(Ann says you can use both the papaya and mango or just the papaya. Both work well. )
1/2 cucumber peeled, seeded, diced
1/2 small red onion thinly sliced and cut
3 Tbsps finely chopped cilantro ( I used much more)
1/2 to 1 small hot red or green pepper (to taste)
1 lime juiced
3 Tbsps of fruity olive oil
salt and ground pepper to taste
Combine papaya, cucumber, onion, cilantro, and hot pepper (set aside).
Whisk together oil and half of the lime juice. Add salt and pepper, season to taste. Toss with papaya mixture.
I served this salsa as a side dish with grilled chicken and it was incredible. I’ve made it with just papaya and with a combination of papaya and mango. Both ways are fresh, tasty and delightful.