Kiwifruit is a wonderfully tangy and sweet fruit that adds a burst of flavor to smoothies, salads, and snacks. But once you bring these fuzzy little gems home, how do you store kiwi fruit to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible? Whether you have ripe or unripe kiwis, whole or cut, this guide will walk you through the best ways to store your kiwis so you can enjoy their juicy goodness whenever you want.
Understanding Kiwi Fruit Ripeness
Before diving into storage tips, it’s important to know whether your kiwis are ripe or still firm.
– Unripe kiwis are firm to the touch and need a few days at room temperature to soften and develop their sweetness.
– Ripe kiwis give slightly to gentle pressure and smell fragrant, ready to eat or refrigerate.
Knowing this will help you decide the best storage method.
How to Store Kiwi Fruit: Step-by-Step
1. Storing Unripe Kiwi Fruit
If your kiwis are not yet ripe, the best place for them is at room temperature. Keep them in a fruit bowl or on your countertop, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like stovetops or windows. This allows them to ripen naturally over 3 to 5 days.
– To speed up ripening, place unripe kiwis in a paper bag with ethylene-producing fruits such as apples, bananas, or pears. The ethylene gas they emit helps soften the kiwis faster.
– Avoid stacking kiwis under heavier fruits to prevent bruising.
2. Storing Ripe Kiwi Fruit
Once your kiwis are ripe and ready to eat, it’s time to slow down the ripening process to keep them fresh longer.
– Store ripe kiwis in the refrigerator, ideally in the crisper drawer.
– Place them in a ventilated plastic bag or loosely wrapped in paper towels to maintain humidity without trapping excess moisture.
– Keep kiwis away from strong-smelling foods like onions or garlic, as kiwis can absorb odors easily.
– Ripe kiwis typically last 5 to 7 days in the fridge.
3. Storing Cut or Sliced Kiwi
If you’ve already cut your kiwi, store the leftovers properly to avoid drying out or spoilage.
– Place cut kiwi in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
– Refrigerate immediately and consume within 1 to 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
4. Freezing Kiwi for Long-Term Storage
If you have more kiwis than you can eat within a week, freezing is a great option.
– You can freeze whole kiwis, but it’s better to peel and slice them first.
– Spread the slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Adding a sprinkle of sugar on the slices before freezing helps preserve texture and flavor.
– Frozen kiwi can last up to 3 months and is perfect for smoothies or desserts.
Tips for Choosing and Handling Kiwi Fruit
– When buying kiwis, look for firm fruit without bruises or wrinkles.
– Avoid kiwis that feel mushy or have dark spots, as these are signs of overripeness.
– To check ripeness, gently press the fruit with your palm; it should yield slightly but bounce back.
– Don’t wash kiwis before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage. Wash just before eating.
Common Questions About Kiwi Storage
Can I store kiwis with other fruits?
Yes, but be cautious. Ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas speed up ripening, which is good for unripe kiwis but not for ripe ones you want to keep longer. Store ripe kiwis separately.
How long do kiwis last?
At room temperature, unripe kiwis last about a week. Ripe kiwis refrigerated last about 5 to 7 days. Frozen kiwis can be stored for several months.
Can I eat the kiwi skin?
Yes, kiwi skin is edible and nutritious, though some prefer to peel it due to its fuzzy texture.
Storing kiwi fruit properly ensures you enjoy their sweet, tangy flavor at its best. Keep unripe kiwis at room temperature to ripen, refrigerate ripe ones to extend freshness, and freeze extras for later use. With these simple tips, your kiwis will stay delicious and ready to brighten your meals anytime.