Eppaw

Eppaw — also known as the American pawpaw — is a soft, custardy fruit that grows wild in the forests of eastern North America. It has a tropical flavour often compared to a cross between banana and mango, which is remarkable for a fruit that thrives in temperate climates.

The fruit is rarely seen in commercial markets because it bruises easily and has a very short shelf life once ripe. It’s primarily foraged or grown in home gardens by enthusiasts. The creamy flesh is eaten fresh, scooped straight from the skin, or used in desserts like ice cream, custards, and pies.

Eppaw has a long history of use among Indigenous peoples of North America and was reportedly a favourite of early American settlers. Despite its excellent flavour, it remains something of a forgotten fruit outside foraging circles.