Pineapple wedges are a refreshing and versatile way to enjoy this tropical fruit. Cutting pineapple into wedges allows you to easily serve it for snacks, desserts, or as part of various dishes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cutting pineapple into wedges:

1. Prepare the Pineapple

  • Select a Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple that feels slightly soft when pressed and has a sweet aroma.
  • Wash the Pineapple: Rinse the pineapple under cool water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat it dry with a clean towel.

2. Trim the Pineapple

  • Cut Off the Top: Place the pineapple on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut off the top crown of the pineapple.
  • Cut Off the Bottom: Slice off the bottom of the pineapple to create a flat surface. This will help stabilize the pineapple while cutting.

3. Peel the Pineapple

  • Stand the Pineapple Upright: Place the pineapple upright on the cutting board.
  • Remove the Skin: Starting from the top, slice downwards to remove the skin in vertical strips. Follow the contour of the pineapple to remove all the tough, spiky skin.
  • Remove the “Eyes”: After peeling, you may notice small brown “eyes” remaining on the fruit. Use the tip of your knife to remove these by making shallow cuts around them.

4. Cut into Wedges

  • Cut into Quarters: Slice the peeled pineapple in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half in half again to create four quarters.
  • Remove the Core: The core of the pineapple is tough and fibrous. Lay each quarter on the cutting board, and slice along the sides to remove the core. You can also cut the core out in a triangular shape if you prefer.
  • Cut into Wedges: Once the core is removed, cut each quarter into 2 or 3 wedges, depending on your preferred size.

5. Serve or Use

  • For Eating: Pineapple wedges can be enjoyed as-is or used in fruit salads, salsas, and other dishes.
  • For Grilling: Pineapple wedges are excellent for grilling. Brush them with a bit of oil and grill over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until you get nice grill marks.

Additional Tips

  • Sharp Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife to ensure clean cuts and make the process easier.
  • Stability: If the pineapple is wobbling, trim a thin slice from the sides to create a more stable base.

By following these steps, you’ll have beautifully cut pineapple wedges that are perfect for snacking, cooking, or serving at your next gathering.

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