Grocery
Fresh Kiwi Fruit
What it is
This is a whole, fresh kiwi fruit, a small oval berry known for its fuzzy brown skin and vibrant green flesh speckled with tiny black seeds. It has a unique sweet and slightly tart flavor, often described as a mix of strawberry, banana, and pineapple. The texture is soft and juicy when ripe, making it a delightful treat on its own or as an addition to various dishes. It is a natural product, ready for preparation.
How people cook with it
Kiwi is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways, adding a burst of flavor and color to both sweet and savory creations.
- Sliced in fruit salads
- Blended into smoothies
- As a topping for yogurt
- In tropical salsa recipes
To prepare kiwi, first wash the fruit. You can peel it using a vegetable peeler or a small knife, or you can cut it in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Once peeled or halved, it can be sliced, diced, or pureed. It's often used raw in desserts, breakfast dishes, and beverages. The enzymes in kiwi can tenderize meat, so it's sometimes used in marinades, though it should be used sparingly to avoid making the meat too mushy. It pairs well with other fruits and dairy.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other common fruits like apples or oranges, kiwi has a more distinct tangy sweetness and a softer, seed-filled interior. Its fuzzy exterior is also a notable difference from the smooth skins of most other fruits. The unique combination of tartness and sweetness sets it apart.
Who it is for
People who enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and want to add a unique flavor to their meals will appreciate this fruit.
How to keep the rest
To store ripe kiwi, keep it in the refrigerator. If the kiwi is still firm, you can leave it at room temperature for a few days to ripen. Once ripe, it will last for about a week in the fridge. Avoid storing it with other fruits that produce a lot of ethylene gas, as this can cause it to ripen too quickly.