Actor Sonam Bajwa loves parathas so much that she can have home-cooked ones anytime. Opening up about the same, the HOUSEFull 5 actor once said that gobhi paratha is her favourite among the many varieties her mom can make. “My parents are Punjabi. So, at home, we have paratha made out of anything and everything. Potato, cauliflower, cabbage. Gobhi is my favourite. Papite ka paratha, dal paratha, matar ka paratha. So, I eat at least two parathas,” Bajwa said.
“We guys are very creative and innovative when it comes to parathas,” she told CurlyTales in 2023.
Taking a cue from her fondness for parathas, let’s ask an expert all about papita paratha, a not-so-commonly-made variety.
“Yes, parathas can be made with papaya, though it’s not as commonly known as other varieties. They’re typically made using raw (green, unripe) papaya grated and used in savoury preparations. Occasionally, ripe papaya is also used in sweet flatbreads, but that’s rare,” said Dr Rajeshwari Panda, head of the dietetics department, Medicover Hospital, Kharghar Navi Mumbai.
Health benefits
Aids digestion: Raw papaya contains papain, a natural enzyme that helps break down proteins. According to Dr Panda, it supports digestion and is especially helpful for people with bloating, indigestion, or low stomach acid.
Rich in dietary fibre: It promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation.
Gut health: It helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Weight management: It keeps you full for longer, aiding in weight control.
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Low Glycemic Index (GI): Raw papaya has a low GI, meaning it doesn’t spike blood sugar quickly.
Supports liver health: Dr Panda said that raw papaya is traditionally used in Ayurveda for liver detox and bile production. It helps the liver process fats and eliminate waste efficiently.
Have you ever eaten papaya paratha? (Photo: Canva)
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich: It contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids. It helps reduce internal inflammation and supports immune functionsaid Dr Panda.
Good for skin health: Papaya’s antioxidants and enzymes help cleanse the body and may promote clearer, healthier skin.
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Versatile: The soft texture makes it easy to digest, Dr Panda said.
Who is it for?
It is suitable for adults, the elderly, diabetics (with portion control and cooked in less oil), kids (above 2 years, mildly spiced), and pregnant women (in moderation and only if cooked).
Dr Panda said it is safe (in moderate portions) for people with diabetes when made with whole wheat and minimal oil.
1–2 parathas per meal, depending on individual calorie and fibre needs
What to note?
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*When prepared with less oil, it’s a light, satisfying meal option for weight loss diets.
*It can be paired with curd or dal for a balanced meal with complex carbsfibre, and protein.
*Avoid raw papaya during early pregnancy unless advised, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
*Cook papaya thoroughly; raw or undercooked versions can be hard to digest.
*Pair with curd or dal for a balanced meal.
*Limit ghee/oil used while cooking if managing weight or cholesterol.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.