Guide to pineapples
Ah glorious pineapples. The crowning glory of summer and all things tropical. If you’ve never cut one before, it can seem like a prickly task. But with a few tips and tricks, it’s easy. Here’s your guide to pineapples, including a step-by-step video on how to cut them, and some zingy, fruity recipes.
Best way to cut a pineapple
How to pick a good pineapple
When choosing a pineapple, look for pineapples with nice and firm skin free of bruising and soft spots. Also check that the base leaves are still green, which indicates freshness. The colour of a ripe pineapple varies on the type, some may be yellow, some may remain green. The best indicator of ripeness is a fragrant, fruity scent.
How to store pineapples
Pineapples can be left at room temperature for a couple of days until they reach your preferred ripeness. Once the pineapple is at optimum ripeness, wrap in a plastic bag and it can be stored in the fridge for a few days. Once cut, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days.
How to freeze pineapples
Pineapple freezes well, ready to add to smoothies or to snack on during a hot summer day. To freeze pineapple:
- Peel and cut it into chunks
- Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper and freeze (be careful to not let the pieces touch each other).
- Once frozen, transfer to a zip-lock bag or airtight container. It will now keep up to for up to 6 months. Don’t forget to label your container or ziplock with the date placed in the freezer.
Health Benefits of Pineapples
Pineapple is an amazing source of vitamin C and manganese. Plus, it’s packed with disease-fighting antioxidants. Pineapple makes a great post-prandial snack as it contains a good amount of digestive enzymes.
Zingy pineapple recipes to try
Pineapple is a fantastic snack alone, but cook it up in dinner (Hawaiian pizza, anyone?) or dessert and it takes it to another dimension of tropical juiciness.
GET THE RECIPE: Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes by Fairy
This recipe calls for tinned pineapple, but you could use fresh pieces of pineapple too. Sticky, fruity and fluffy all at once, these sweet cakes are a classic retro dessert.
GET THE RECIPE: Quick Balinese Fish Curry by Passage to India
GET THE RECIPE: Crispy Sweet and Sour Pork Belly Salad by Passage to Asia
GET THE RECIPE: Pine Lime Curd and Coconut Yoghurt Pots by Australian Eggs
