Baked Papaya with Coconut Cream (Marshall Islands)

Marshallese baked papaya with coconut cream was a sweet delight. I had never baked papaya before and it was absolutely delicious. This is another very simple recipe from the Marshall Islands that uses readily available ingredients. I was reluctant about the amount of time which is about an hour to bake the papaya but it is the correct amount of time. It uses a bit of sugar to add the sweetness making a caramelized sauce as it bakes. A wonderful dessert for that Island flair. It also makes your kitchen smell amazing at it bakes.

2 papaya's firm but not too ripe
1 can coconut cream
½ cup sugar

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cut the papaya lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

Sprinkle the papayas with equal amounts of sugar.

Put in a baking dish in the oven for 1 hour.

Raise the temp to 400°F.

Baste the papayas with the caramel sauce.

add the coconut cream in the center and heat for 5 more minutes.

Serve warm.

Makes 4 servings.