Pineapple 101

A dear friend of mine said, "Hey Shel, why don't you do some posts about kitchen basics.  You know, like, how to cut a pineapple or make a good (easy) vinaigrette."  I am more than happy to oblige.  Today, I give you, the pineapple.

Step 1:  Lay the pineapple on it's side on a cutting board.  (This step is not shown here but I am <hoping> that you won't try to cut the ends off of a pineapple that is standing up.)  :)

Step 2.  Cut off both ends and discard.

Step 3.  Now cut off the skin, turning the pineapple as you go.  Make sure to get as much of the brown part off as you can without losing too much of the precious pineapple.

 Step 4.  All clean!

 Step 5.  Now cut the pineapple down the center (and please excuse the gruesome Freddy Krueger picture.  It was just me and my camera today.  :)

 Step 6.  That's better.

 Step 7.  Now lay the two pieces flat and cut them in half lengthwise.

 Step 8.  Again with the horror flick.  Sorry.  Cut into the pineapple on an angle to remove the core which runs the entire length of the fruit.  Be careful.  It's slippery!

Step 9.  Now cut the piece into 4 strips (and repeat with remaining pieces.)

Step 10.  Cut the strips into bite sized chunks and there you have it!  Pineapple!  All ready to eat!