Pineapple, Aussie North Qld Pines

We know a pineapple farmer up the coast -- wow, we've never met a happier, more passionate guy. Perhaps it is the soil, or the vibe from caring for happy yellow things that give a golden gift to the world (and loads of Hawaiian pizzas). No wonder the pineapple is often a symbol for happiness, summer, luxe and sunshine.

Let mum know that pineapples are a good source of vitamin C, manganese and contain dietary fibre...not just a pretty, spiky face! 

In Australia, there’s:

• Rough leaf:  smaller, rough and spiky skin, which is yellow and tinged with green, which becomes orange-yellow when the fruit is ripe. The leaves are serrated (jagged) and the flesh is sweet and white to yellow in colour.
• Smooth leaf (smooth cayenne):  large, pale-fleshed fruit that are juicier. May have tops or crowns cut off (sold as Gold topless pineapples).

• Freshest in October.
• Good for a damn fine juice (or mocktail) holder, drinks (like a super mint pine mocktails), seafood, pork, salads and sides (like salsa), and a good stand-in pumpkin for Halloween.
• Store in pantry or fridge for two days (eat the pine by day 3). 

Top Tip
A pineapple will not ripen after harvesting. Buying your pineapples at your local grocer ( :) thank you!) is a good choice to ensure it is fresh and ready to eat.