1/2 inch cubed fresh pineapple
Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain enzyme; it also provides dietary fiber and contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. One cup of fresh pineapple chunks (approximately 165g) contains roughly 82 calories and 22g of carbohydrates.
About
Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical fruit native to South America, characterized by its distinctive cylindrical shape, thick golden-yellow or reddish skin with hexagonal patterns, and sweet, juicy pale yellow flesh. The fruit grows atop a herbaceous plant and develops from a compound inflorescence, producing a single large fruit per plant. Pineapples contain bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins, which gives the fruit its distinctive tangy sweetness and makes it useful for tenderizing meat. The fruit's flavor profile ranges from bright and acidic to honey-sweet depending on ripeness and variety, with common cultivars including 'Cayenne,' 'Red Spanish,' and 'Smooth Cayenne.'
Culinary Uses
Fresh pineapple is used extensively across global cuisines, from tropical preparations to Western desserts and savory dishes. It is consumed fresh, grilled, roasted, or incorporated into salsas, marinades, stir-fries, curries, and beverages. In Hawaiian and Southeast Asian cuisines, pineapple is paired with meat dishes, particularly pork and chicken, where bromelain acts as a natural tenderizer. It appears in classic dishes such as pineapple fried rice, Hawaiian pizza, and tropical fruit salads. The high acidity and enzyme content make fresh pineapple particularly useful in marinades for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat, while its sweetness complements savory elements like ham, fish, and coconut.