Canned Pineapple Chunks

Canned pineapple chunks are a convenient and versatile tropical fruit product, offering a sweet and tangy flavor with a tender texture. Originating from pineapple plants primarily grown in tropical regions like Southeast Asia, South America, and parts of Africa, these chunks are preserved in either their own juices or a sugary syrup. The flavor profile is characteristically sweet with a slight acidity that brightens dishes. The texture is soft yet holds its shape well, making it ideal for both cooking and eating straight from the can. In culinary applications, canned pineapple chunks add a burst of tropical sweetness and can complement both savory and sweet dishes. They are often used in baking, salads, and as a pizza topping, contributing moisture and a hint of tanginess to recipes.

Notes

When selecting canned pineapple chunks, check for options packed in juice rather than heavy syrup for a less sweet taste. Properly stored in a cool, dry pantry, unopened cans can last up to a year. Once opened, transfer the pineapple to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be mindful of potential allergies to pineapple, which are rare but can occur. For ease of use, drain the liquid before incorporating into dishes to control the sweetness and moisture level.

Uses

Toppings for yogurt or oatmeal
Addition to fruit salads
Ingredient in upside-down cakes
Pizza topping with ham and cheese
Smoothie enhancer for tropical flair
Coleslaw for a sweet crunch
Grilled meat accompaniment

Replacements

Fresh pineapple chunks
Frozen pineapple chunks
Mandarin oranges for citrus
Peaches for sweetness
Papaya chunks for tropical flavor
Mango chunks for similar sweetness

Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas are a variety of edible-podded pea that combines the sweetness of a sugar pea with the crunch of a snow pea. Originating in the 1970s from a cross between the two, they quickly gained popularity in Western cuisine for their delightful flavor and texture. These vibrant green pods offer a sweet, slightly grassy taste with a satisfying snap when bitten into. Their texture is crisp and tender, making them a delightful addition to both raw and cooked dishes. In cooking, sugar snap peas hold their shape well, whether they are quickly sautéed, steamed, or added to stir-fries, while still maintaining their signature crunch and fresh flavor.

Naan Bread

Soft, pillowy, and slightly charred, naan bread is a beloved flatbread that hails from the Indian subcontinent. Its tender texture and subtle smoky flavor make it the perfect companion to curries, kebabs, and dals.

Recipes to try

Smoky Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Soup

Rich and smoky, this velvety soup is packed with the deep flavors of roasted tomatoes and peppers.

Smoky Espresso Rubbed Flank Steak Fajitas

Tender, smoky flank steak kissed with a hint of espresso mingles with colorful bell peppers and onions for a fiesta of flavors.