The Great Kiwifruit Debate: Firm or Soft?

Kiwifruit season is in full swing, and they're tasting fantastic right now.

They're one of those fruits that can leave you wondering whether to eat them now or wait another couple of days. Some people like them firm and tangy. Others prefer them soft and juicy.

The good news is there's no wrong way. It really comes down to what you enjoy. It's a bit like apples. Some people love a tart Granny Smith, while others reach straight for a sweeter Royal Gala.

Firm Kiwifruit

If you like a bit of bite to your fruit, you'll probably prefer kiwifruit on the firmer side.

They're slightly tangy, easier to slice, and less messy to eat.

Firm kiwifruit are great for:

• Lunchboxes

• Fruit platters

• Salads

• Smoothies

  
  

If they're rock hard, though, they probably need a little more time on the bench.

Soft Kiwifruit

As kiwifruit ripen, they become softer, sweeter and juicier.

A ripe kiwifruit should give slightly when you gently squeeze it. Not mushy, just soft enough that you know it's ready.

This is when many people think they're at their best.

Soft kiwifruit are perfect for:

• Eating with a spoon

• Breakfast bowls

• Desserts

• Baking

The softer they get, the sweeter they tend to taste.

Green vs Gold (and Red!) Kiwifruit

Traditional green kiwifruit are generally a little firmer and more tangy. Sweet green kiwifruit look much the same, fuzz and all, but they're noticeably milder and sweeter while still keeping that classic green kiwi flavour.

Gold kiwifruit have a more tropical flavour and soften more quickly. They're also less fuzzy than green kiwifruit, which is good news if the hairy skin has never really been your thing, even though it's perfectly edible.

Then there's the RubyRed kiwifruit with their striking red centre. They have a much shorter season than the other varieties, lasting only a few weeks. We've only just waved goodbye to them for another season - they're definitely here for a good time, not a long time!

How to Ripen Kiwifruit Faster

If your kiwifruit aren't quite ready, leave them on the bench for a few days.

If you're impatient, pop them in a paper bag with a banana or apple. Both release a natural gas called ethylene that helps speed up the ripening process.

How to Stop Them Going Too Soft

Of course, the opposite problem is often more common. You wait for them to ripen and suddenly every single one seems ready on the same day. Once they're at the stage you like, put them in the fridge. It'll slow things down and give you a bit longer to enjoy them.

When Is a Kiwifruit Past Its Best?

If your kiwifruit feels very squishy, has wrinkled skin, or is starting to leak juice, it's probably past its best.

That doesn't necessarily mean it's unusable. Very ripe kiwifruit can still be great in smoothies, baking, or stirred through yoghurt.

Kiwi Quick Bread - Food.com

So, Which Is Better?

Whichever one you enjoy eating. If you like a bit of tang and bite, eat them while they're still firm. If you prefer them sweeter and juicier, give them a few more days on the bench.

After a few kiwifruit, you'll soon know exactly which camp you're in.

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Joanne Webb runs Eatlocal.nz, delivering premium, locally sourced fruit, veges, and artisan foods across the South Island. Passionate about supporting New Zealand growers, she personally packs every order to ensure quality and freshness. When she's not working on Eatlocal, you’ll find her walking her mini Schnauzer, Zac - or procrastinating about training for another marathon!