Introduction
Kiwis, also known as fuzzy fruits, have a sweet and tangy taste that is perfect for snacking, smoothies, or as a garnish on salads. However, peeling a kiwi can be a daunting task for some, especially with its fuzzy outer layer that can be difficult to remove without losing a good portion of the fruit. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on different methods for peeling kiwis, including their pros and cons, to make this process easier.
The Traditional Method
The traditional method of peeling a kiwi is the most common and straightforward way. Here’s how:
- Wash the kiwi carefully and remove the stem.
- Place the kiwi on a cutting board and hold it with one hand.
- Use a sharp knife to make a small cut at the top of the kiwi.
- Using your thumb or a spoon, gently lift the skin from the cut and peel it off gradually, rotating the kiwi as you go until you reach the bottom.
Advantages: This method requires no special tools and can be done quickly without any mess.
Disadvantages: There’s a risk of damaging the fruit while peeling, and the fuzzy skin can make this method difficult for those with sensitive skin.
Spoon Method
The spoon method involves using a spoon to scoop out the kiwi flesh from the skin, making it an ideal method for those who do not want to cut or damage the fruit.
- Wash the kiwi and remove the stem.
- Slice the kiwi in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop the edge of the flesh next to the skin and slide it around the skin’s perimeter until it is fully detached from the skin.
- Use the spoon to scoop out the fruit, or slide it out by turning the kiwi inside out.
Advantages: This method requires no cutting and can be done without any damage to the fruit. It is also a great way to get kids involved in preparing their snacks.
Disadvantages: It can be time-consuming and messy, especially if the kiwi is too ripe.
“Hot Dog Style” Method
This method involves cutting the kiwi in half and then cutting each half into thin slices, like you would do for a hot dog, and then peeling the skin off each slice individually.
- Wash the kiwi and remove the stem.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the kiwi in half.
- Take one half and lay it flat on the cutting board, then slice it into thin, even slices with the skin on.
- Hold each slice by the sides and gently peel the skin off each one with your fingers or a knife.
Advantages: This method is quick, requires no special tools, and allows you to create neat slices for fruit salads or garnishes.
Disadvantages: It may not work well for overripe fruits and may be challenging to get even slices.
“Top Hat” Method
Also called the “hat trick” method, this technique involves cutting off the ends of the kiwi, making a hole in the top of the fruit, and then scooping out the flesh with a spoon.
- Wash the kiwi and remove the stem.
- Using a sharp knife, slice off both ends of the fruit to make flat surfaces.
- Insert a spoon at the top of the kiwi and slide it around the perimeter of the fruit to detach the skin from the flesh.
- Use the spoon to scoop out the flesh, or slide it out by turning the kiwi inside out.
Advantages: This method is perfect for those who don’t want to damage the fruit, and it’s an excellent way to create a “bowl” for serving fruits or fruit salad.
Disadvantages: May not work well for overripe fruits, and it requires a little bit of skill in knife handling to cut off the ends neatly.
“Peel and Eat” Method
The “peel and eat” method involves eating the kiwi skin along with the flesh, making it a quick and easy way to enjoy the fruit without any additional preparation.
Advantages: This method is quick and easy, and you can get the most out of the fruit, as the skin contains fiber and other essential nutrients.
Disadvantages: Some people may not like the texture of the fuzzy skin, and it’s not recommended for people with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
“Freeze and Squeeze” Method
This method involves freezing the kiwi and squeezing the flesh out from the bottom of the fruit while the skin remains intact.
- Wash the kiwi and remove the stem.
- Wrap the fruit with plastic wrap or put it in a Ziploc bag and put it in the freezer for a few hours until it is frozen solid.
- Take the kiwi out of the freezer, cut off one end, and push the fruit out from the opposite end by squeezing it.
Advantages: This method is an excellent way to get the most juice out of the fruit and can make a great addition to smoothies or drinks.
Disadvantages: The flesh can be messy and difficult to control, and not all the fruit may come out. Additionally, it takes some time to freeze the fruit.
“Spiral” Method
The spiral method involves cutting the kiwi in half and then using a paring knife to spiral-cut the fruit by etching from the top of one half to the bottom, then reversing and going up the other half in a circular motion.
- Wash the kiwi and remove the stem.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the fruit in half lengthwise.
- Using a paring knife, start at the top of one half and etch a circular path toward the bottom of the kiwi.
- Go back to the top of the first half and etch a circular path around the perimeter, going back up. Then move the knife in a circular motion to make the spiral shape.
- Gently peel the skin off the bottom-end of each half, and the kiwi will open up into a flower-like shape.
Advantages: This method is visually appealing and perfect for creating fruit platters or garnishing cocktails.
Disadvantages: This method is time-consuming and requires some skill in handling a paring knife.
Conclusion
There are numerous ways to peel a kiwi, depending on your preferences and needs. Whether you prefer to use a knife or a spoon, peel the skin or not, there’s a kiwi peeling method that will work for you. In conclusion, we recommend using the “hot dog style” method, as it is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any special tools. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the other techniques and see which one works best for you.
Remember to always wash your kiwis before peeling and to be careful while handling sharp knives. Kiwis can make a great addition to any meal or snack, and peeling them shouldn’t be too much of a hassle with these methods.