Difference between Pineapple Juice and Dried Pineapple
The pineapple is a sweet tropical fruit from the Bromeliaceae family. The leaves are used for ornamental purposes, while the fruit can be eaten fresh or it can be prepared for various desserts. The pineapple originated in South America being introduced later on to Europe, Africa and Asia. Top producers today are Thailand, the Philippines and Brazil.
The plant only makes one fruit and then it dies. But farmers have found a way to induce the flowering in an artificial manner so as to create smaller fruits. The top of each pineapple fruit can be planted so another plant can grow.
Properties
Pineapple juice has a rich mixture of vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B6 and C, manganese, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, calcium and proteins. These can be found only in fresh pineapple juice. Processed juice contains fewer nutritious elements and more sugar and other chemical substances meant to preserve it in a canned environment. Just eight ounces of fresh pineapple juice a day can provide you with three quarters of the quantity of vitamin C recommended per day. The potassium in pineapples ensures proper kidney functions, a healthy heart and better digestive system. Thiamine can provide energy and keep the nervous system healthy.
Dried pineapple preserves a few nutritious elements, but also has a few chemical preservation substances added such as sulfur dioxide which gives the yellowish color. Without it, the dried fruit would look brown and wouldn't be so appealing. Some manufacturers sell the dried pineapple chunks with a coat of sugar on top as a combination of sweet and sour.
Homemade
To make fresh pineapple juice, you need to clean the fruit under cold water. Then remove the rough exterior and the hard core of the pineapple fruit. Afterward, cut the fruit into small pieces and place them into a juice maker. If the juice is too sweet you can add some crushed ice.
Dried pineapple can be made easily. Remove the exterior and cut the fruit into small pieces. Place them over a cooking sheet and set them in the oven at 200 degrees F (50 degrees C). The process is slow so you will need to be patient.
Use
Pineapple juice can be incorporated into various cocktails. It can be mixed with alcohol or with other non alcoholic juices. Sometimes a fresh cup of juice will do the trick.
Dried pineapple can be served as snack either in chunks, sliced rings or diced chunks.
Similarities and Differences
- Pineapple juice is more nutritious in its fresh state. Canned pineapple juice and dried pineapple are less nutritious due to preservatives.
- To make pineapple juice, just put the pieces of fruit in a juice machine. To dry pineapple, just put pieces in the oven on low heat.
- Pineapple juice can be consumed as a refreshing drink or as an ingredient in a cocktail, while dried pineapple is generally served as snack.
