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Kiwi, also known as Chinese gooseberry, is a delicious and nutritious fruit enjoyed by people around the world. While it is available year-round in most grocery stores, kiwi has specific seasons when it is at its peak of freshness and flavor. In this article, we will explore the different seasons when kiwi is in season and provide a guide to help you enjoy this delicious fruit year-round.
Understanding the Kiwi Fruit
The kiwi is a small, oval-shaped fruit with a fuzzy brown exterior and bright green flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. It has a unique tangy-sweet flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. Not only is kiwi delicious, but it is also packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
Northern Hemisphere Seasons
Late Fall to Early Winter (October to December)
In the Northern Hemisphere, kiwi fruit harvested in late fall to early winter is usually imported from countries in the Southern Hemisphere, such as New Zealand. The New Zealand varieties of kiwi, including the popular Hayward kiwi, are typically available during this time, providing a burst of flavor and freshness during the winter months.
Spring to early summer (March to June)
As spring arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, local varieties of kiwi begin to ripen. These varieties, such as Fuzzy Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) and Golden Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis), are grown in regions with suitable climates, including California, Italy, and other Mediterranean countries. This is the peak season for locally grown kiwi in the Northern Hemisphere.
Southern Hemisphere Seasons
Late Spring to Early Summer (October to December)
In the Southern Hemisphere, kiwi fruit is harvested in late spring to early summer. Countries such as New Zealand and Australia are major producers and their kiwi crops peak during this time. The vibrant green Hayward kiwi, along with other local varieties, is readily available and offers a fresh and flavorful experience.
Late Summer to Early Fall (March to May)
Toward the end of the Southern Hemisphere summer, the local kiwi harvest season begins to wind down. However, you may still find some late-season varieties available in early fall. It’s a great time to enjoy the last of the fresh kiwi before transitioning to imported fruit from the Northern Hemisphere.
Enjoy kiwi all year round
While the peak season for kiwi varies between the northern and southern hemispheres, international trade and global supply chains make the fruit available year-round in most grocery stores. This means you can enjoy kiwi anytime, regardless of the season.
Tips for choosing ripe kiwis
Firmness
When gently squeezed, a ripe kiwi should yield slightly to pressure but not feel mushy or overly soft. Avoid kiwis that are too firm, as they may still be underripe and lack flavor.
Weight
A ripe kiwi will feel relatively heavy for its size. This indicates that it is juicy and has developed a good amount of sweetness.
Skin Texture
The skin of a ripe kiwi should be smooth and free of wrinkles or blemishes. Avoid kiwis with cuts, bruises, or mold as these are signs of spoilage.
Color
Most varieties of kiwi have a brown, fuzzy exterior. A ripe kiwi will have bright green flesh under the skin. However, some kiwi varieties, such as Golden Kiwi, have a smoother, yellow skin when ripe. Look for the specific variety you are buying to determine the correct color.
Flavor
Ripe kiwi fruit has a sweet, fragrant aroma. If the kiwi you are considering has a pleasant, fruity scent, it is probably ripe and ready to eat. Be wary if there is no aroma or if it smells fermented or off, as it may be overripe or spoiled.
Ripening time
If you find kiwis that are slightly underripe, you can ripen them at home. Place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple, as these fruits naturally release ethylene gas, which helps speed up the ripening process. Leave the bag at room temperature and check the kiwis daily until they reach your desired ripeness.
Include kiwi in your diet
Kiwi is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. You can simply slice it and eat it as is, scoop out the flesh with a spoon, or peel and dice it to add to fruit salads, smoothies, or yogurt. Kiwi also pairs well with savory dishes like salads, salsas, and marinades, adding a refreshing and tangy twist.
Fruit Salad
Kiwi adds a refreshing and tangy flavor to fruit salads. Slice or dice ripe kiwi and combine it with other fruits such as berries, pineapple, mango, and citrus. You can also drizzle a little honey or lime juice for added sweetness and tang.
Smoothies
Kiwi is a great addition to smoothies, providing a burst of flavor and vibrant color. Blend ripe kiwi with other fruits such as banana, spinach, pineapple, and coconut water or yogurt for a nutritious and refreshing smoothie. You can also add a handful of ice for extra chill.
Yogurt Parfait
Layer slices of kiwi with Greek yogurt and granola for a delicious and nutritious parfait. The creamy yogurt balances the tang of the kiwi, while the granola adds a satisfying crunch.
Salsas and chutneys
Kiwi can be used to make flavorful salsas and chutneys that pair well with grilled meats and fish, or as a dip for tortilla chips. Combine diced kiwi with ingredients like red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice and a touch of honey for a unique and tangy salsa.
Salads
Add sliced or diced kiwi to your favorite salads for a burst of flavor and a pop of color. It pairs well with greens like spinach or arugula, and you can also combine it with ingredients like feta cheese, almonds, and a light vinaigrette.
Desserts
Kiwi can be used in a variety of desserts. It makes a beautiful and delicious addition to fruit tarts, pavlovas and fruit pies. You can also use it to top cakes, cupcakes, or ice cream for a lively and refreshing twist.
Kiwi Salsa
Make a unique and flavorful salsa by combining diced kiwi with tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro and a pinch of salt. This salsa is great with grilled fish or chicken, tacos, or as a refreshing dip with tortilla chips.
The Bottom Line
While kiwi has specific seasons when it is at its freshest, this delicious fruit is available in stores year-round. By understanding the different harvesting seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, you can make informed choices and enjoy the best quality kiwi all year long. Whether you’re adding it to your breakfast, incorporating it into desserts, or using it in savory dishes, kiwi is a versatile and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in any season.
FAQ
What months is kiwi in season?
Kiwi is in season during different months depending on the hemisphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, kiwi is typically in season from late fall to early winter (October to December) and from spring to early summer (March to June). In the Southern Hemisphere, kiwi is in season from late spring to early summer (October to December) and from late summer to early fall (March to May).
Which countries produce kiwis during the Northern Hemisphere season?
During the Northern Hemisphere season, countries such as the United States (especially California), Italy, and other Mediterranean countries are known to produce kiwi.
Which countries are major kiwi producers during the Southern Hemisphere season?
New Zealand and Australia are the main producers of kiwis during the Southern Hemisphere season.
Can I find kiwi in stores outside of its seasonal availability?
Yes, kiwi is available in most grocery stores year-round due to international trade and global supply chains. However, the peak freshness and flavor of kiwi may vary depending on the season.
How do I choose ripe kiwi?
When selecting ripe kiwi, look for fruit that yields slightly to light pressure but is not too soft. The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes or mold. Ripe kiwis should also have a sweet aroma.
What should I do if I find slightly underripe kiwis?
If you find slightly underripe kiwi, you can speed up the ripening process by placing it in a paper bag with a banana or apple. These fruits release natural ethylene gas, which helps the kiwi ripen. Keep the bag at room temperature and check the kiwis daily until they reach your desired ripeness.
How can I add kiwi to my diet?
There are many ways to incorporate kiwi into your diet. You can slice or dice it for fruit salads, blend it into smoothies, layer it in yogurt parfaits, add it to salsas or chutneys, toss it into salads, use it in desserts like cakes and pies, marinate meats with it, or make a kiwi salsa for a unique twist on traditional salsas.
How should I store kiwi?
Store unripe kiwi at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, store kiwi in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week.
Is kiwi a nutritious fruit?
Yes, kiwi is a nutritious fruit. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. It also offers several health benefits, including supporting immune function, aiding digestion, and promoting heart health.
Can I enjoy kiwi all year round?
Yes, you can enjoy kiwi year-round because it is available in most grocery stores year-round. However, peak seasons may offer the best quality and flavor.