1 1/2 lb. under-ripe papaya, peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
4 tbsp. butter
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg, preferably freshly grated
1/2 tsp. salt

Pour enough boiling water into the lower part of a steamer to come to within 1 inch of the cooking rack. Spread the papaya cubes on the rack of the steamer or on top of the plate, and bring the water to boil again. Cover the pan tightly and steam over moderate heat for 15 to 20 minutes.

When the papaya is tender and somewhat translucent, transfer it to a sieve or colander to drain.

In a heavy 10 to 12-inch skillet, melt the butter over moderate heat. When the foam begins to subside, drop in the papaya and season with the nutmeg and salt. Toss the papaya about gently with a spoon until it is evenly coated with butter.

Serve at once from the heated bowl. Steamed papaya may be an accompaniment when the entree is poultry, lamb or pork. Serves 4 to 6.