Pineapples are a symbol of hospitality and hope. Sending someone a pineapple emoji is equal to sending good vibes, telling someone to brighten up, keep smiling, and stay golden. A pineapple is not a single fruit but a cluster of berries fused to a core and the fruit’s flowers are visible as scales on its thick outer skin. Pineapples are available year-round and the majority are imported from Costa Rica.
Grilling pineapple slices condenses the natural sugar and intensifies its sweetness. Fresh pineapple acts as a natural meal tenderizer through the action of bromelain which breaks down tough meat fibers. This same tenderizing effect is why fresh pineapple cannot be added to a gelatin dessert. Bromelain will breakdown the gel.
One cup of pineapple has 82 calories, is an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of thiamin and vitamin B6. Pineapples do not ripen after being picked. Select one with a deeper yellow color as it will have the highest sugar (sweetness) content. Uncut and refrigerated a fresh pineapple will stay fresh for close to 3 weeks.
