Many of us go to the market and get confused when we see a variety of fruits. You may have decided on purchasing a pineapple and feel unsure when trying to pick out a good one. What do we look for when we choose a pineapple? How do we know that it is ready to eat? Here are a few tips to help you choose a good pineapple every time.
1. Where to purchase good pineapples
Knowledge on where the fruit is grown makes a lot of difference when purchasing a pineapple. Some of the farms have a reputation for maintaining quality, a clean environment and are socially responsible. Look for quality products that are grown on farms where the workers are paid equitable wages and offered good working conditions.
2. Check the color and stem of the pineapple
The ripening process halts after a harvest. A pineapple changes color at the stem. You can therefore determine if the pineapple is fresh by noting the color at the stem. All of us believe that a pineapple should have a lush golden color as we believe that it is ripe. This is not true. If a pineapple is green on the outside, it may be fully ripe and ready to eat. Pineapples should look appealing and if you notice any leaks or wrinkled skin do not pick it up. If the fruit is reddish-brown and the skin appears wrinkled it is not advisable to choose the pineapple.
3. The shell should be firm and the leaves green
The leaves on the pineapple should be green and look healthy. This is a good indicator that the pineapple is fresh and ready for eating. Feel the fruit and check if it is firm. If it succumbs to slight pressure from your hands, it is not fresh. Inspect the eyes that have the spikes on the centers of the geometric pattern. The eyes should be flat and look filled out. If the fruit feels heavy to the touch, the chances are that it is juicy.
4. The resistance test
Inspect the leaves at the top of the pineapple. Try to pluck out a leaf and if it yields to the touch then the fruit may be over ripe. Look for slight resistance to know if you can select that particular pineapple or not.
5. Do not store a pineapple for too long
Once you buy the pineapple, try to eat it within the first couple of days. If you need to store it, make sure it is in the fridge. You can keep the fruit refrigerated for at least a week.
6. How to freeze pineapple
Once the fruit is cut into chunks, you should put it immediately into a container and freeze it. This will help to retain the flavor and you can safely store the fruit for 3 to 6 months.
7. How to slice a pineapple
Cut the pineapple horizontally at the top and base so that it can sit on the chopping board. Using a sharp knife cut the rind from the top to the bottom. The prickly rind should be sliced off when you cut. Cut it lengthwise in half and then another half you and will be left with four quarters. Remove the core as it is tough and then cube or slice the fruit.
8. Pineapple Treats
Prepare delicious salsa, gazpachos and smoothies using pineapple and mixing it with other fruits. Prepare desserts and juices for your family and friends. Pineapple chunks can be skewered and barbecues along with meats. Try out various recipes using pineapple as they have great digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. They possess natural antioxidants that will boost your immune system.
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