* 1 can crushed pineapple
Rich in vitamin C and bromelain (a proteolytic enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties). Canned versions retain most micronutrients but may contain added sugars depending on processing method.
About
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical herbaceous perennial native to South America, now cultivated globally in warm climates. The fruit is a large, cylindrical berry with a tough, segmented skin ranging from golden-yellow to orange-brown, topped with a crown of stiff leaves. The flesh is fibrous, juicy, and pale to bright yellow, with a sweet-tart flavor profile dominated by natural sugars and organic acids. Crushed pineapple refers to the fruit that has been peeled, cored, and mechanically reduced to small fragments, typically canned in its own juice or light syrup for preservation and convenience.
Culinary Uses
Crushed pineapple is widely used in both savory and sweet applications across multiple cuisines. It appears in Asian stir-fries, Hawaiian pizza, glazes for ham and poultry, desserts, baked goods, and beverages. The texture makes it particularly suitable for marinades, where the natural enzymes (bromelain) tenderize meat; sauces and salsas; and as a filling or topping for cakes and pastries. In tropical and Southeast Asian cooking, it complements curries, rice dishes, and seafood preparations.