Welcome to the fuzzy, juicy, and tantalizing world of kiwis. This small, unassuming fruit, often overshadowed by its more flamboyant cousins, the apple and the orange, is a veritable treasure trove of taste and nutrition. But did you know that there are more varieties of kiwi than you can shake a stick at? Let's dive in and explore the delicious world of kiwi varieties.
The Fuzzy Kiwi
The fuzzy kiwi, also known as the common kiwi, is the variety most people are familiar with. It's named for its distinctive brown, fuzzy skin, which, let's be honest, looks a bit like a small, hairy potato. But don't let its appearance fool you - beneath that unassuming exterior lies a vibrant green flesh, speckled with tiny black seeds and bursting with sweet, tart flavor.
The fuzzy kiwi is native to China, but has been cultivated all over the world, from New Zealand to California. It's also the most widely available variety, so if you've ever eaten a kiwi, chances are it was a fuzzy one. But as we're about to see, there's more to the kiwi family than just this familiar face.
The Golden Kiwi
Next up is the golden kiwi, the fuzzy kiwi's glamorous cousin. As its name suggests, the golden kiwi boasts a beautiful, bright golden flesh, a stark contrast to the green of the fuzzy kiwi. But the differences don't stop there. The golden kiwi's skin is smooth and hairless, making it more appealing to those who find the fuzzy kiwi's skin a bit off-putting.
But perhaps the most striking difference is in the taste. The golden kiwi is sweeter and more tropical in flavor than the fuzzy kiwi, with hints of mango and pineapple. It's also less acidic, making it a hit with those who find the tartness of the fuzzy kiwi a bit too much to handle.
Other Kiwi Varieties
While the fuzzy and golden kiwis are the most well-known, there are several other kiwi varieties worth exploring. For instance, the hardy kiwi, a smaller variety with a smooth, edible skin and a sweeter taste. Or the kiwi berry, a bite-sized version of the kiwi that's perfect for snacking.
Then there's the red kiwi, a rare variety with a striking red flesh and a sweet, berry-like flavor. And let's not forget the silver vine kiwi, a wild variety native to China that's rarely seen in supermarkets but is a treat for those lucky enough to find it.
How to Choose and Store Kiwis
Now that we've explored the different kiwi varieties, let's talk about how to choose and store them. When choosing a kiwi, look for fruits that are firm but yield slightly to pressure. Avoid fruits with wrinkles, blemishes, or damp spots.
Once you've chosen your kiwis, store them at room temperature until they're ripe, then move them to the refrigerator. If you need to speed up the ripening process, put the kiwis in a paper bag with an apple or banana. The ethylene gas released by these fruits will help ripen the kiwis faster.
FAQs
Can you eat the skin of a kiwi?
Yes, the skin of a kiwi is edible, although some people prefer to peel it due to its fuzzy texture. The skin is rich in fiber and vitamin C, so it's worth giving it a try!
Are golden kiwis genetically modified?
No, golden kiwis are not genetically modified. They are a natural variety of kiwi that was developed through selective breeding.
What's the best way to eat a kiwi?
There's no right or wrong way to eat a kiwi. You can cut it in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, slice it, or eat it whole, skin and all. It's also great in salads, smoothies, and desserts.
Conclusion
So there you have it - a whirlwind tour of the delicious world of kiwi varieties. From the familiar fuzzy kiwi to the exotic silver vine kiwi, there's a kiwi out there for everyone. So next time you're at the supermarket, why not branch out and try a new variety? You might just find a new favorite fruit!
