Yellow, tropical and refreshing. Pineapple, or what 42 other languages call ananas, is a deliciously sweet fruit that is native to South America. Some famed dishes with pineapples that we may be familiar with is pineapple fried rice, pineapple tart or cakes and although controversial, Hawaiian Pizza. Pineapple is also frequently used in cocktails! Piña Colada, Pineapple Margarita, Blue Hawaiian. Where do I get a glass?
Pineapple History
In the mid 17th to early 18th century, pineapples were greatly coveted and seen as a luxury item in England and American colonies. Only the wealthy were able to purchase the fruit as there was a low supply due to pineapples requiring a tropical climate to grow. King Charles II even commissioned a painting of his gardener handing him a pineapple. Indeed, pineapples were the foie gras of yesterday.
Health Benefits
Pineapple is loaded with nutrients and contains numerous vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin B (B1, B2, B6, B9), vitamin K as well as fibre and minerals such as manganese. For centuries, countries in Central and South America have used pineapples as a way to treat inflammation and digestion. Several studies have also shown that pineapples may reduce the risk of cancer, ease symptoms of arthritis and boost immunity.
Other Functions
Usually consumed as it is, pineapples can also be used as a marinade. Due to bromelain, an enzyme that digests protein, meats can be tenderised when marinated with pineapple. This is why there is a prickly feeling on your tongue if you eat too many pineapples in one sitting; we've all been there!
How to Pick the Best Pineapples
For first-time pineapple buyers or those who have a hard time picking a pineapple at the local supermarket, here are some tips on choosing pineapples:
- From the top, make sure the pineapple crown is not wilted or brown, as that means the pineapple is old.
- Ensure that the pineapple is not too green (not ripe) nor full yellow (over-ripe). The best pineapple is where you are able to see a mixture of yellow and green colours on the skin.
- Choose pineapples with bigger eyes (the diamond shapes on the skin) as they are much sweeter.
- Feel the firmness of the pineapple by giving it a light squeeze. It should be firm but slightly soft. However, if the pineapple is too soft (over-ripe), it would be best to choose another pineapple.
Once you have got your hands on some juicy pineapples, go ahead and give the recipes below a try!
Pineapple Plum Carrot
Ingredients:
- Pineapple 130g
- Plum 190g
- Carrot 60g
Steps:
- Remove pineapple peel and core, and slice into appropriate sizes.
- Remove the plum’s seed, and cut plum and carrot.
- Put lever on “close.” Extract about half the pineapple, then begin extracting plum and carrot.
- Once the rest of the pineapple has been extracted, switch lever to “half-open” position. Allow pulp to be expelled from drum.
Pineapple Cucumber
Ingredients:
- Cucumber 120g
- Pineapple 280g
Steps:
- Remove pineapple peel and core, and slice into appropriate sizes.
- Cut off the ends of the cucumber, remove prickles, and slice.
- Put lever on “close.” Alternately insert cucumber and pineapple to extract.
- Once the last of the ingredients is inserted, switch lever to “half-open” position. Allow pulp to be expelled from drum.
Pineapple Blueberry
Ingredients:
- Pineapple 230g
- Pear 150g
- Blueberry 20g
Steps:
- Remove the peel and core of the pineapple and the core and seeds of the pear. Cut into appropriate sizes.
- Wash blueberries thoroughly.
- Place lever on “close” and extract the pineapple. Once extracted, place lever on “half-open,” and allow pulp to be expelled.
- Place lever on “close” and extract the pear and blueberries. Once extracted, place lever on “half-open,” and allow pulp to be expelled.
- Slowly pour extracted pear and blueberry juice into the prepared glass to create a double-layer effect.
Pineapple Berry Pear
Ingredients:
- Pineapple 140g
- Pear 140g
- Raspberry 20g
- Blueberry 30g
- Strawberry 30g
Steps:
- Remove the peel and core of the pineapple and the core and seeds of the pear. Cut into appropriate sizes.
- Wash berries thoroughly.
- Place lever on “close”. Extract half of the pineapple, then extract other ingredients.
- Insert the rest of the pineapple, place lever on “half-open,” and allow pulp to be expelled.
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Need some ideas for juice recipes? Check out our Hurom recipes here: https://huromsingapore.com/pages/juice-recipes-health