Pineapple

Pineapple is one of my favorite fruits. I like having it around this time of year, towards the end of winter because it reminds me of warm, tropical weather. The peak season for pineapple is November through August. Pineapple is native to Paraguay and Brazil but is grown in most tropical regions including Hawaii and Mexico. I took this picture of the pineapple plant in Costa Rica two years ago.

How to pick a ripe pineapple at the food store or market:

Once a pineapple is picked it does not get sweeter as it ripens. The outside will turn from green to yellow, and likewise will increase in juiciness, but not sweetness. A ripe pineapple will be plump and will have a sweet pineapple scent. The pineapple shouldn't have any soft spots and the leaves on top should be fresh and green.

How to cut a pineapple:

There are many ways to cut a pineapple and after experimenting on my own I have found what I believe to be the easiest way. I am not very good with a knife (kind of clumsy) so this is definitely the simple way. Using a Chef's knife slice off the top and base of the fruit. Then slice the fruit in half horizontally (not lengthwise). Lay each half fruit-side down and then chop off the skin circling the fruit. What you are left with is the edible portion on the outside and the tough core in the middle. You can see the different between these by the grain of the pineapple, and also by the ease at which the knife cuts into it. Slice off the "meat" into four big pieces, and throw out the core. Now chop into bite-size pieces. Repeat with the other half.

Health benefits of pineapple:

Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which aids in digestion, wound healing, and reducing inflammation. Bromelain may be effective in treating bruises, fractures, and strains by reducing inflammation and pain. A study conducted at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research in Australia found that a compound in pineapple may fight cancer growth. One cup of fresh pineapple contains:

• 91% of the DV for manganese. Manganese is a trace mineral that aids in carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant protection.
• 94% of the DV for vitamin C. This vitamin functions in collagen, hormone, and neurotransmitter synthesis, as well as some antioxidant affects. Vitamin C may also play a role in recycling vitamin E within the body.
• 8% of the DV for thiamin. Thiamin is a coenzyme in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism.
• 2 grams of fiber

Pineapple recipes:

Caribbean-Fruity-Salsa

Pineapple Parfait (try to use fresh pineapple instead of canned)

Pineapple Fruit Boat

Jamaican Shrimp & Pineapple Salad

References:

Balch, P. C. (2006). Prescription for Nutrional Healing. New York: Avery.

Bowden, J. P. (2007). The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press.

Brown, A. (2008). Understanding Food. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth.

Wardlaw, G. M., & Hampl, J. S. (2007). Perspectives in Nutrition. New York: McGraw-Hill.