Baby Queen Victoria Pineapples
Estimated Inventory, 10 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Baby Queen Victorian pineapples, also known as Baby South African pineapples, are smaller than the common pineapple, standing only four to 5 inches tall. The fronds extending from the crown are only 2 inches longer and are sharp and covered in spikes. These mini pineapples have a fragrant golden orange skin and juicy, bright yellow flesh. They are sweeter and more aromatic than their larger counterparts.
Seasons/Availability
Queen Victoria pineapples are available year-round.
Current Facts
Queen Victoria pineapples, botanically classified as Ananas comosus, are a small, aromatic variety belonging to the Bromeliaceae family. Despite their petite nature, Queen Victoria pineapples are full-grown, mature fruits that are cultivated in South Africa and on the islands of Réunion and Mauritius. Queen Victoria pineapples are renowned for their concentrated flavor, unique size, and tender flesh, featuring an edible core, and are sold worldwide under many names, including Common Rough pineapples, South African Baby pineapples, Zululand pineapples, Queen Baby pineapples, Queen pineapples, and Victoria pineapples. The pineapples were first introduced to commercial markets worldwide in the mid to late 20th century, and in some markets, especially in South Africa, the variety is so common that it is simply labeled as pineapple. Queen Victoria pineapples are heavily marketed for their small size, utilized as an individual serving in culinary dishes or placed as edible decoration in gift baskets and as a table decoration. The pineapples can also be incorporated in any preparation calling for common pineapples, allowing chefs to expand their culinary creativity in using the fruits in a wide variety of fresh and cooked preparations.
Nutritional Value
Queen Victoria pineapples are a source of fiber to regulate the digestive tract, potassium to balance fluid levels within the body, and calcium and phosphorus to protect bones and teeth. The pineapples also provide vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning, vitamin E to protect the cells against free radical damage, and other amounts of manganese, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Applications
Baby Queen Victorian pineapples are used most often as a garnish or as décor. Its smaller size makes it perfect for use in beverages, fruit salads, or baked goods. The mini pineapple is refreshing eaten on its own or added to yogurt, ice cream, or juices. Use it in savory or sweet and sour dishes. These mini pineapples are entirely edible, unlike their larger cousins. If purchased at room temperature, keep at room temperature; if purchased cold, store in the refrigerator.
Geography/History
Queen Victoria pineapples are descendants of pineapple varieties native to South America, where the fruits have been growing wild since ancient times. Christopher Columbus discovered pineapples on his expeditions to South America in 1493 and brought the fruits and seeds with him on his journeys, spreading pineapples worldwide. Pineapples were later introduced to Réunion Island in 1668, and the fruits quickly assimilated to the volcanic soils, producing sweet, concentrated flavors. The exact history of Queen Victoria pineapples is unknown, but the small fruits were quickly recognized for their texture, flavor, and aroma and became a famous fruit of Réunion. The pineapples were also being grown in South Africa and Mauritius since in the 1960s, reaching international success in the 1980s. Today Queen Victoria pineapples are grown along the entire South African coastline and thrive in coastal, sub-tropical to hot and humid, tropical climates. The pineapples are sold in local markets, at roadside stands, and are sometimes grown in home gardens. The fruits are also commercially cultivated in Réunion and Mauritius, exported to the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia for sale as a specialty, high-end fruit.
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