I love pineapples. I wish I had them at home everyday so I could eat whenever I want. Fresh pineapples aren’t always available, and I don’t want to settle for canned pineapples. I’ll appreciate it if I can have a stockpile in the freezer that won’t spoil. Can I freeze Pineapple?
It’s great to hear that you are choosing to eat fresh foods above anything else, and we must agree, fresh pineapples are way better than its canned counterparts. It has no preservatives, and the flavor is just wonderful. Not to mention the huge amounts of vitamins and minerals packed in every bite is remarkable. It is also one of the best sources of fiber, which aids in proper digestion.
Yes, you can freeze Pineapple. Frozen pineapples are great to use in smoothies, baking and even on pizzas! Pineapples are seasonal fruits, though. While available at some grocery stores all year round, the best time to buy is from March to July.
Can You Freeze Pineapple?
Once a pineapple is picked, you cannot let it sit for a time hoping it will ripen. It is only good for about two to three days at room temperature and four to five days when refrigerated.
Get the freshest pineapple available and prepare them right away. Choosing a pineapple is easy. First, flip it over and smell the stem end. It must be sweet and juicy. It should be plump and fairly heavy compared to its size, and firm when pressed.
The best way to freeze the fruit is to have them peeled and cut. It is ideal to include the core as well. This can be stored by taking it out separately using a pineapple corer, or leave it on while cutting the fruit into cubes. The core doesn’t have much flavor to it, but this is where most of the nutrients are concentrated. This has the highest concentration of fiber and Bromelain, an enzyme best known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Pineapples are naturally juicy, so you may want to use an air tight bag or a spill-proof container for storage. The fruit will naturally lose some of its juices while freezing, and we want to avoid losing these juices in the process.
Another thing to remember is it loses some of its flavor once frozen, but it doesn’t necessarily lose its nutritional value. Frozen pineapples are good for about 6 months. If available, you may use a dehydrator to further extend its storage life.
How to Freeze Pineapple?
Freezing a pineapple is pretty easy to do, and can be broken down into 3 major steps.
- Cut it!
- Place the pineapple on its side and cut the crown and the stem end off.
- Stand it up on one end then slice the skin off, leaving as much flesh as you possibly can.
- Remove the eye spots. Slice a V-shaped groove along a line of eye spots.
- Cut it into slices or cubes, whichever you like.
- Freeze it!
- Take out a cookie sheet or a plate and line it with wax paper.
- Put the pineapples on the sheet without letting it touch each other.
- Leave it in the freezer until completely frozen.
- Store it!
- Take it out of the cookie sheet or plate and store it in an air tight container.
- Label it with the date prepared. It is good for consumption for about six months.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Pineapple?
Pineapple is a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what do you do when you have extra pineapple? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover pineapple:
- Make a smoothie – Pineapple makes a great addition to smoothies. Just add it to a blender with some milk and yogurt, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy drink in no time.
- Add it to your cereal – To add some extra sweetness and flavor to your morning cereal. Just add some cubed pineapple to your favorite cereal, and you’re good to go.
- Make a fruit salad – Pineapple is a great addition to any fruit salad. Just add it in with your other favorite fruits, and you’ll have a tasty and healthy dish in no time.
- Grill it – Grilled pineapple is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this fruit. Just slice it into pieces, brush with some oil, and grill for about 2 minutes per side. You can enjoy it as is or top it with ice cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert.
- Make a pineapple salsa – Pineapple salsa is a great way to use up extra pineapple. Just combine chopped pineapple, diced tomatoes, diced onion, chopped cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl and you’ll have a delicious salsa that’s perfect for chips or tacos.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover pineapple. Next time you find yourself with extra fruit, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Pineapple Recipes
Aside from eating them as is, there are other ways to enjoy these frozen pineapples. Below are some examples.
Pineapple Ice cream
What better way to enjoy a tropical fruit than making it an ice cream flavor! There is no need for an ice cream maker in this recipe.
Pineapple Banana Smoothie
Whether you are on the go or simply want enjoy a drink, this must surely be on top of your favorite smoothies list.
Pineapple Popsicles
Another take on the frozen delight, popsicles are great for kids and kids at heart. This is definitely easy to make.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1on9QJl7HFQ
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze pineapple. You can eat your frozen pineapple in any form: whole or cut into pieces. Frozen pineapple will last for 9-12 months. Wash the fruit, remove the peel and cut away the core. Cut the fruit into 1/2 inch thick slices or cubes. Arrange a single layer of prepared fruit in a freezer bag. Seal tightly and place in the freezer.
Frozen pineapple can be eaten as is or used in various recipes. For example, you can easily use it to make a smoothie. Please share your experience with freezing pineapples and how it worked for you by leaving a comment below.