If you’re in the mood to enjoy some pineapple and want to purchase it whole and slice it yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a pineapple. The most important thing is to select one that’s ripe: Once a pineapple has been picked, it will no longer ripen, so it’s important to choose one that’s been plucked at its peak.
Below, a few of our suggestions for selecting a ripe pineapple.
1) For the most part, disregard color.
The color of a pineapple’s shell doesn’t tell you much about ripeness. Not all ripe pineapples are yellow—a green pineapple can be ripe, too. Look for a bit of yellow, which should be present at the eyes at the base of the fruit, but a green tint elsewhere is not a bad thing. The leaves should be a vibrant shade of green.
2) Instead, give it a squeeze…
The body of a pineapple should never be soft (that’s a bad sign). Rather, it should be firm, although it should yield slightly to a squeeze.
3) …As well as a sniff.
Put your nose near the stem side of the pineapple and inhale. It should smell aromatic, with a scent that’s sweet and tropical. If there’s no scent, this is an indication that they pineapple’s not ripe. A vinegary or alcoholic stench means it’s probably past its prime.
4) Feel its heaviness in your hand.
Weight is another consideration when selecting the right pineapple. As with many fruits, the heavier the fruit, the better—generally this means there’s the highest water content, and therefore the juiciest flesh.
5) If all else fails…
If you’re stuck with a pineapple that’s lacking in the ripeness department, here’s what to do:
- Cut the top of the pineapple off.
- Place the body of the pineapple, cut-side down, on a plate.
- Cover the pineapple and let it rest in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Hawaiians swear by this method, as it supposedly helps the juices from the bottom of the pineapple, which was connected to the plant, circulate throughout.
Do you have other tips for choosing the best pineapple? Let us know what they are in the comments below!
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[…] contrast to salty tortilla chips or savory tacos! Fresh pineapples work best here (see tips for how to pick out a ripe pineapple here), but in a pinch, canned pineapple will work, […]
I live where pineapples don’t grow. The first time I tried pineapple was in the Philippines. Very cool guide. I think it does not lose its relevance.
Nice Article.
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Pineapple guide very interesting and useful. Thanks for sharing.
My sister in law taught me to store the pineapple upside down in the fridge for more juiciness before you cut it up. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it really works!
thank you for giving me wonderful information
I was taught to pull leaves from the top. The further down the stem you pull the more ripe the fruit.
I also use the leaf pull test.
As do I, and smell, an inner leaf!
Most Americans won’t like this tip because we all love ease and convenience- but to see if a pineapple is ready in brasil here we give a tug on the center stem on the top of the crown right at the center ( usually u get poked good at this point). If it comes off and up easily it’s ready to cut! Pure sweet pineapple with a little lime zest can’t be beat! When I’m in the states, one thing in the “to do” list is visit your amazing store! My family and kitchen thank u for your excellence!!!!
This is my go to method as well. Never fails me!!
mine as well