Author: Cyndie Story
Last saved by: michelle.armstrong
Company: Culinary Solution Centers, LLC

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Fruit Preparation Methods and Tips

Segment 12: Kiwifruit

Chef Cyndie: Kiwi has become a popular fruit in the U.S. and is packed with tons of nutrition.  Just one kiwi has 2 ½ times the amount of Vitamin C you need in a day, plus more fiber than a bowl of bran cereal.  Research shows it is the most nutrient dense fruit.  Start by looking for firm, unblemished fruit.  Ripe kiwi will give slightly to gentle pressure.  If it doesn't give to pressure, it's not ready to eat; simple as that.
There are a number of ways to prepare kiwi for serving to students.  First, rinse the fruit.  You could cut it in half and serve it with a spoon for slooping.  Slooping is the term used to describe slicing and scooping out the kiwi fruit.
If you want to serve it in wedges, use the sectionizer with the four wedge blade.  Place the kiwi on the sectionizer on its end facing north and south.  Using the handle, pull down and cut the kiwi into four wedges.  The six wedge blade is not recommended because the wedges would be too thin and fall apart easily.  If you want kiwi slices, replace the wedger blade with the kiwi/tomato serrated slicing blade.  Place the kiwi on its side facing east and west on the blade.  Using the sectionizer handle, pull down to create kiwi slices.
OK, do you have to remove the furry, brown skin?  No, as a matter of fact, you can eat the skin for more nutrition and fiber.  But, if you want to remove the skin for serving or garnishing fruit cups, here’s an easy way.  First, the kiwi must be ripe to use this method.  If it is rock hard, please do not try to do this.
1.	Remove both ends of the fruit using a sharp knife.
2.	Slide a teaspoon between the skin and flesh.  Apply pressure to the back of the spoon with your thumb while rotating the fruit.
3.	Now squeeze the fruit from the skin. 
4.	Voila!  There you have it.  From here we can make kiwi slices using a chef’s knife.
Like blueberries and grapes, kiwi may be used to garnish fresh fruit cups.  Look at how beautiful the vibrant green color shows against the red strawberries.

Kiwi keeps your body from going down under so eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables every day.