Learn how to cut a pineapple with clear step-by-step guidance, helpful video instruction, and simple tips that make the process easy and low-waste.
Buying a big, fresh spiky pineapple used to intimidate me: just how could I turn this into sweet and juicy chunks? But turns out, cutting a pineapple is actually far easier than it seems once you know the hack.
Whether you’re adding fresh fruit to a smoothie or a fruit tray with dip, my step-by-step guide shows the easiest way to break down this tropical fruit without any special tools!
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How to Cut a Pineapple: Step by Step
Step 1: Use a large chef’s knife to cut off the top of the pineapple.
Step 2 (optional): Turn the pineapple upside down and place it on a plate; allow it to rest 30 minutes. Since pineapples are stored stem side up, gravity makes the juices run to the bottom. Resting the pineapple upside down for 30 minutes helps the juices to run back down and distribute for evenly juicy pieces.
Step 3: After 30 minutes, cut off the other end of the pineapple.
Step 4: Remove the skin of the pineapple by slicing it off, following the shape of the pineapple.
Step 5: Slice the pineapple in half lengthwise.
Step 6: Lay down each pineapple half on the flat cut side, and cut it in half lengthwise again.
Step 7: Remove the core by cutting it out at an angle.
Step 8a: Slice each quarter in half lengthwise.
Step 8b: Then turn it and slice in the other direction to create pineapple chunks.
And there you have it: how to cut pineapple in 8 steps! Let me know if you try my method for how to cut pineapple and how it goes in the comments below.
Choosing a Ripe Pineapple
Picking a ripe pineapple is important. When shopping, look for fruit that is yellow in color (some green at the top is fine). Then sniff the bottom of the pineapple: a sweet smell means it’s ready to eat.
Give it a gentle squeeze: a ripe pineapple feels slightly soft but still firm. A heavier pineapple also means it has more juice: which is what you want!
Pro Tip: Use a Large, Sharp Chef’s Knife
Safety starts with the right tool. I always use my 7-inch chef’s knife for cutting pineapple (which I’ve owned for years!). A paring knife is too small, and a serrated knife can tear the flesh.
It’s also important to make sure your cutting board is stable. You can place a damp kitchen towel underneath to prevent slipping. Read more in my guide, Knife Skills 101!
Ways to Use Fresh Pineapple
Now that you know how to cut pineapple, here are some of our favorite pineapple recipes for you to try:
- Salsa: Dice it up for pineapple salsa.
- Skewers: Try it in fruit skewers with fruit dip.
- Sorbet: Freeze it into pineapple sorbet.
- Grilled: Fire up the grill for grilled pineapple
- Smoothies: Freeze it for a pineapple smoothie or mango pineapple smoothie.
Storing & Freezing
Cut pineapple stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The fruitm ay release some juice as it sits, which is totally normal.
You can also freeze pineapple chunks on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen pineapple keeps for up to 6 months: it’s perfect for smoothies!
Frequently Asked Questions
Look for the tough, spiky leaves at the top. The core runs directly down the center from the base to the top. You can often see a slightly lighter colored line going down the center of the fruit as well.
Yes, but it might be a bit trickier. A less ripe pineapple will be harder to cut and may not yield as much juicy flesh. If you must use a not-so-ripe pineapple, focus on the core removal method that keeps the fruit in larger pieces, minimizing waste.
I had to research this! Soaking cut pineapple in water (sometimes with a pinch of salt) can reduce the tingling sensation some people get from bromelain, an enzyme in fresh pineapple.
How to Cut a Pineapple (Easy & Quick!)
Pin RecipeLearn how to cut a pineapple with clear step-by-step guidance, helpful video instruction, and simple tips that make the process easy and low-waste.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 5 cups 1x
- Category: Knife Skills
- Method: Cutting
- Cuisine: N/A
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple
Instructions
- Use a large chef’s knife to cut off the top of the pineapple.
- Turn the pineapple upside down and place it on a plate; allow it to rest 30 minutes. Since pineapples are stored stem side up, gravity makes the juices run to the bottom. Resting the pineapple upside down for 30 minutes helps the juices to run back down and distribute for evenly juicy pieces.
- After 30 minutes, cut off the other end of the pineapple.
- Remove the skin of the pineapple by slicing it off, following the shape of the pineapple.
- Slice the pineapple in half lengthwise.
- Lay down each pineapple half on the flat cut side, and cut it in half lengthwise again.
- Remove the core by cutting it out at an angle.
- Slice each quarter in half lengthwise, then turn it and slice in the other direction to create pineapple chunks.
More Pineapple Recipes to Try
from A Couple Cooks https://ift.tt/CnPduSy
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