Kiwi

Actinidia deliciosa (fuzzy kiwi) Fruit

Kiwi Fruit

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond its striking color, kiwi is a nutritional powerhouse, known for its enzyme actinidin, which aids digestion but can also tenderize meat."

Definition

An oval-shaped, fuzzy-skinned fruit with vibrant green flesh, tiny black seeds, and a sweet, tangy, and slightly tropical flavor.

Enzyme Present Actinidin
Ripeness Indicator Yields to gentle pressure
Vitamin C Content (per 100g) ~92.7 mg (100% DV)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Kiwi are:

Sweet Tangy Tart Tropical Slightly Citrusy

Chef’s Secret

Mash kiwi into a marinade for tough cuts of meat for 30-60 minutes; the actinidin enzymes tenderize effectively but too long will turn meat mushy.

Best Substitutes

Green Grapes

for texture/tartness
Ratio 1:1

Pineapple

for tropical tang
Ratio 1:1

Strawberry

for color/sweetness
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, unblemished kiwis. Store at room temperature to ripen, then refrigerate for up to a week.

Recipes Using Kiwi

Preparation Breakfast Dietary Course

Banana And Kiwi Muffins

Moist, yummy, and not-too-sweet banana and kiwi muffins—perfect for a quick breakfast or healthy snack! This easy recipe makes 12 standard muffins or 24 mini muffins, bursting with fresh kiwi and banana flavor. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying treat!

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Tropical Fruit Mango Course Fruit

Basil Lime Fruit Salad Cooking Light

Escape to paradise with this vibrant Basil Lime Fruit Salad! Perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavors dance on your tongue, thanks to a homemade basil-lime simple syrup that elevates this refreshing summer dessert. Prepare ahead for effortless entertaining – simply combine the prepped fruit and syrup just before serving. Light, zesty, and incredibly delicious!

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Tropical Fruit Fruit Tropical Fruit Main Ingredient

Aloha Cheesecake

Escape to paradise with this dreamy Aloha Cheesecake! A vibrant tropical twist on a classic dessert, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, luscious filling infused with the bright flavors of the islands. Perfect for a summer gathering or a special occasion.

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American Dietary Time To Make North American

Berry Kiwi Salad W Honey Dijon Mustard Dressing

Vibrant and refreshing, this Berry Kiwi Salad is a summer sensation! Sweet berries and tangy kiwi combine in a colorful mix, tossed with a unique honey-dijon mustard dressing that elevates this salad beyond the ordinary. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, it's the perfect light lunch, side dish, or dessert alternative.

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New Zealand Summer Picnic Preparation

A Kiwi Warrior Burger For The Barbie Barbecue

Unleash your inner All Black with this explosive Kiwi Warrior Burger! This New Zealand-inspired recipe packs a flavor punch that'll leave you wanting more. Juicy patties, creamy warrior topping, and fresh toppings combine for a truly unforgettable burger experience. Prepare for a meal and a half – it's a flavor fight you won't want to miss!

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Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less 5 Ingredients Or Less Time To Make

Ambrosia Salad

A vibrant and refreshing spring Ambrosia Salad, perfect for Easter and any celebration! This colorful fruit salad features a creamy coconut-sour cream dressing and a delightful mix of sweet and crunchy textures. Easy to customize with your favorite fruits, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Tropical Fruit Dietary

April Fools Day Fooled Ya Hot Dog In A Bun

This fun and playful recipe, inspired by a 2006 Parents Magazine article, is the perfect April Fool's Day prank! Surprise your family and friends (with no nut allergies!) with this cleverly disguised hot dog. Pair it with our Fooled Ya French Fries recipe for a complete and hilarious meal. Easy to make in just 5 minutes!

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Healthy 2 Fruit Time To Make Course

Kiwi Mint Julep

Escape to the tropics with this refreshing Kiwi Mint Julep! A vibrant twist on the classic Southern favorite, this cocktail combines the sweetness of kiwi with the coolness of mint and a hint of lime. Easy to make and perfect for a hot summer day or any special occasion. Get the recipe from EatingWell.com (shared by zwt5).

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Salads Salads Dietary Low Sodium

7 Fruit Salad

Beat the summer heat with this incredibly easy 7-Fruit Salad! Bursting with juicy nectarines, sweet bananas, and a vibrant mix of berries, this refreshing recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple yet elegant dessert.

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Taste Mood Brunch Low Saturated Fat Presentation

A Tropical Fruit Parfait

Escape to paradise with this vibrant Tropical Fruit Parfait! Sweet mango and kiwi blend with creamy banana for a taste of the tropics. Quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy breakfast, dessert, or snack. This recipe is guaranteed to transport you to a warm beach, no matter the season!

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