The Kiwi: Emerald Elegance
The Kiwifruit
History of the Kiwifruit.
Originally discovered in the Chang Kiang Valley of China, kiwifruit was considered a delicacy by the great Khans who enjoyed the emerald green color and wonderful flavor. By the mid-1800s, the fruit had found its way into other countries and was nicknamed the Chinese gooseberry. New Zealand growers started to export this exotic fruit to specialized markets around the world.
Then in 1962, a California produce dealer began importing New Zealand gooseberries. The dealer renamed the product "kiwifruit" because of its resemblance to the fuzzy brown kiwi — New Zealand's funny-looking national bird. By the late 1960s, California began producing its own kiwifruit in the Delano and Gridley areas.
How to Eat A Kiwi
There's no "right" or "wrong" way to eat California Kiwifruit. But since most people find that slicing and scooping is a good way to get the most from their kiwifruit, we coined the word "slooping" to describe it! Here's how to sloop your kiwi:
Using a sharp knife, slice the kiwifruit lengthwise to create two identical halves. Then use a spoon to scoop the sweet, delicious meat of the kiwifruit from each half. Looking for maximum fiber and nutrition? Don't throw that skin away! It's loaded with nutrients and fiber, so rinse it off and bite right in!
The kiwifruit is a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, and Fiber. It is low in calories, low in sodium, has no cholesterol, and only a small amount of fat.
One Large Kiwifruit weighs about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and provides the following nutrition.
Kiwi Mint Lemonade
Makes 4 servings
If you don't have mint, try fresh lemon balm. The lemonade is also delicious without the herbs.
Ingredients
1 cup (250 mL) water
½ (125 mL) cup granulated sugar
½ (125 mL) cup packed fresh mint leaves
3 California kiwifruit
3 lemons
Sparkling water
Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, heat water with sugar over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in mint leaves. Let stand 20 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, peel kiwifruit and cut into chunks. Puree in a food processor. Place puree in a pitcher. Strain cooled syrup into a pitcher, pressing on mint, then discard leaves. Refrigerate until cold. Squeeze juice from 2 lemons. Stir into kiwifruit mixture. Taste, squeeze in juice from remaining lemon for a tarter lemonade.
3. Pour into glasses. Top with sparkling water. Serve garnished with a slice of kiwifruit. Makes about 2¼ cups (550 mL) without sparkling water, enough for 4 drinks.
References.
1. Top 10 Ways to Enjoy Kiwifruit, Fruits and Veggies Kiwifruit
