Unlock the full potential of pineapple, an exotic fruit known for improving digestion, promoting gut health and boosting immunity. Even more, every bit of this flavorful fruit can be utilized, standing as a model for a zero waste approach.
Zero Waste Wonder: All parts of Pineapple are Usable
Interestingly, the peels and core of pineapple are rich in an antioxidant enzyme called bromelain. Instead of discarding these parts after eating the juicy fruit, you can put them to good use and contribute towards reducing food waste.
Many Faces of Pineapple Peels
Before you compost them, pineapple peels can be put to multiple uses:
- Refreshing Drink: Infuse in water for a revitalizing beverage.
- Metabolism Booster: Prepare a tea, excellent for kick-starting your metabolism.
- Acne Treatment: Create a skin toner to treat acne problems.
- Fermented Drink: Make tepache, a popular South American fermented drink.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Tepache
If you're looking to experiment with your pineapple peels, tepache presents a perfect opportunity. Here's how to make it:
- Take peels and cores of two pineapples, combine with one cup of brown sugar, and six cups of water.
- If you prefer, add a dash of flavor with a cinnamon stick and whole cloves.
- Leave the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 12 to 48 hours.
- After that, strain the mixture and let it ferment for another 6 to 12 hours at room temperature until it becomes carbonated.
- Finally, store your homemade tepache in the refrigerator where it can be kept for up to two weeks.