I love everything
about pineapples. I love the look of pineapples with their geometric-patterned
skin and spike-y, green leaves. The exotic smell—that makes me think of
sunshine and blue sky. In the Colonial United
States, families would set a fresh pineapple in the center of the table
as a colorful, festive centerpiece. This symbolized the best in welcome and
hospitality. Carvings of pineapples were put on doors as a welcoming symbol to
visitors.
The scientific name of pineapple is Ananas comosus. Ananas, the
original name of pineapple, comes from the Tupi (native people of the Brazilian
coast) word nanas, meaning
"excellent fruit." The natives of southern Brazil and Paraguay spread
the pineapple throughout South America. Eventually it reached the Caribbean,
Central America and Mexico. The Maya, and the Aztec peoples cultivated pineapples.
In 1493, Columbus found pineapple on the leeward island of Guadeloupe. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pineapple)
In general, it is not a good idea to eat fruits
with meat because they digest at different rates and this causes fermentation
in the gut. However, fresh pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain.
Bromelain is a fantastic digestive enzyme for proteins, meats. Pineapple is an excellent paring with
meats, as is the fruit papaya, which also contains enzymes.
Pineapple
contains: B-complex; thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic
acid, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and potassium and antioxidants and
polyphenols, such as beta-carotene. One cup of pineapple has 70 to 85 calories.
It is rich in fiber and is low in fat and cholesterol.
Pineapple
benefits these health concerns: Digestion; Fertility;
Inflammation; Heart health; Skin; Kidney stones; Strengthens bones;
Gums; Lowers risk of macular degeneration; Intestinal parasites.
A local Osteopathic doctor always recommends his
patience eat pineapple when they are fighting off viruses that cause
cough and colds. The bromelain is effective in suppressing coughs and loosening
mucus. Pineapple juice can be used as a facial peel—leave on the skin for two
minutes then wash off.
How to choose a pineapple: Choose a fresh one with a firm, plump body, without bruising or soft
spots, and green leaves at the crown. If the outer shell is green, this does
not mean the pineapple is not ripe. Do not worry if the leaves pull from the
crown easily. Pineapples should be picked at their peak ripeness. They do ripen
once picked. Canned or packaged pineapple should be packed only in it’s own
juice, not heavy (sugar) syrup. Whole or cut pineapple should be stored in the
refrigerator for three to four days at most. However, some experts
believe pineapple will be softer and juicier if kept at room temperature for 1
or 2 days before cutting.
Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Original recipe makes 10 appetizer servings
•
1 cup pineapple
juice
•
1/2 cup packed
brown sugar
•
1/3 cup Tamari,
or soy sauce (choose low sodium)
•
2 pounds organic chicken breast tenderloins or strips
•
skewers
Both soy sauce
and Tamari are byproducts of fermented soybeans. However, Tamari contains
little to no wheat (always double-check if avoiding gluten)
Directions
•
In a
small saucepan over medium heat, mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy
sauce. Remove from heat just before the mixture comes to a boil.
•
Place
chicken tenders in a medium bowl. Cover with the pineapple marinade, and
refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
•
Preheat
grill for medium heat. Thread chicken lengthwise onto wooden skewers.
Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill
chicken tenders 5 minutes per side, or until juices run clear. They cook
quickly, so watch them closely.
Other Great Uses
for Pineapple:
1. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
2. Grilled Pineapple
3. Acorn Squash (and Pineapple)
4. Pico De Gallo
5. Pineapple Casserole
6. Polynesian Chicken
7. Pineapple Sorbet
8. Pineapple Jam
9. Pineapple Fudge
10. Sweet and Sour
Vegetables
11. Hawaiian Pizza
12. Kabobs
13. Pineapple
Popsicles
14. Pineapple Cheese
Ball
15. Tropical Fruit
Salad
16. Pineapple
Marshmallow Salad
17. Squid With Garlic
and Pineapple
18. Pork and
Pineapples
19. Honey Roasted
Pineapple
20. Cocktails!
http://www.wisebread.com/20-delicious-ways-to-use-pineapple
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