Pineapple: the king of fruits

 Pineapple: the king of fruits

Its crown gives it a distinctive and imposing appearance. But it is its benefits that make pineapple a perfect ally for those who want to maintain a healthy diet, with a touch of sweetness.

Some people say they don't like pineapple and prefer pineapple because it is supposedly much sweeter. The blame lies with a certain practice that has made pineapple a regular presence on the table on Christmas Eve, usually leaving a sour aftertaste in the mouth – when the intention was simply to get over the sweet tooth.

Now we have a secret for you: pineapple from the Azores is sweet and tasty like no other, it just needs to be eaten at the right time – from May onwards.

In this article we will explore the benefits, what distinguishes it from pineapple and the countless ways to consume this versatile fruit.

Nutritional benefits of pineapple

With only 47 kcal per 100g, pineapple stands out for its unique nutritional profile. Rich in bromelain, an enzyme that gives it digestive properties, it also contains manganese, which, in addition to being an antioxidant, contributes to normal energy-producing metabolism, and vitamin C, also an antioxidant that promotes the normal functioning of the immune system.

It is also an excellent source of hydration, as it contains around 87% water in its composition.

Pineapple from the Azores: its origin

Pineapple from the Azores is one of the most emblematic products of São Miguel. Although it is originally from South America – having arrived on the island in the 19th century as an ornamental plant – pineapple found the ideal conditions for its cultivation in the archipelago, becoming a true local symbol.

In São Miguel, the fruit is produced in glass greenhouses, using the so-called “hot bed” – a process that mixes soil and organic plant matter that enriches the soil, and, through irrigation and natural decomposition, recreates the temperatures necessary for the natural growth of the plant and fruit inside the greenhouse.

Each pineapple plant only produces one fruit. And, depending on the conditions, it takes around 18 to 24 months to obtain a quality piece.

The pineapple from the Azores stands out for its green crown that represents between 1/3 and 1/4 of the length of the fruit, and for its cylindrical (fusiform) shape. When ripe, its skin is straw-yellow in color and the pulp is an almost translucent yellow color. The pleasant and fragrant aroma and the sweet and sour flavor are unmistakable and much appreciated.

Differences between pineapple and ananas

Although they are often treated as synonyms, pineapple and ananas are different varieties of the same species: Ananas comosus. The variety, the place where it is produced and the production method can give them slight differences. Thus:

1. Origin and cultivation

Pineapple is more common in Europe and in regions with a subtropical climate, including the Azores. In fact, the Azores pineapple is famous for being grown in greenhouses and organically. It takes longer to ripen (24 months), which contributes to a balanced flavor between sweet and sour.

Pineapple, on the other hand, is predominant in South America, especially in Costa Rica and Brazil, where it is cultivated outdoors and on a large scale. It grows in tropical climates and ripens more quickly (18 months).

2. Appearance

Physically, pineapple is smaller and more compact, with a harder skin and pronounced spines on the leaves of the crown. Pineapples, on the other hand, are larger and more elongated.

3. Flavor and pulp

Pineapples have a balanced flavor. They are fibrous and sweet, but contain a more pronounced acidity than their “tropical brother”. They are ideal for dishes that require a contrast of flavors. Pineapples are sweeter and juicier, with a softer and less fibrous pulp.

How to peel pineapples (or pineapples, if you prefer)

01

Cut the top of the pineapple, removing the crown. Then, cut the base, creating a flat surface to stabilize the fruit;

02

Stand the pineapple upright and, with the knife, remove the peel. Make vertical cuts along the fruit, from the top to the base;

03

The pineapple pit is edible and contains vitamins, but it can be removed to make the fruit more pleasant to eat. If this is your option, cut the pineapple into four equal parts, making two cross-shaped cuts (vertical and horizontal). Use the knife to cut the inside of the fruit;

04

Finally, present it as desired. If you choose to keep the pit, slice the pineapple into uniform slices. If you choose to remove the core, you can create smaller shapes, such as cubes or smaller slices. Enjoy your meal!