Pineapple Juice

Unopened canned juice is shelf-stable. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 5-7 days. Freeze in ice cube trays for convenient portions.

High in vitamin C and manganese. Unsweetened varieties have lower sugar content.

Use as a natural meat tenderizer in marinades (30 minutes max, or it becomes mushy)

Add to stir-fry sauces for sweet-tangy balance

Reduce on the stovetop to create a concentrated glaze

Fresh juice has stronger enzyme activity than canned

Chill well before using in cocktails or smoothies

Coconut (piña coladas, smoothies)

Ginger (stir-fries, marinades)

Soy sauce (teriyaki-style glazes)

Rum (tropical cocktails)

Pork and chicken (marinades)

Bell peppers and onions (sweet and sour dishes)

Over-marinating meat with pineapple juice (breaks down protein too much after 30-60 minutes)

Adding fresh pineapple juice to gelatin desserts (enzymes prevent setting; use canned)

Substituting sweetened juice for unsweetened in recipes without adjusting sugar

Not shaking or stirring canned juice before using (pulp settles)