How To Peel a Kiwi

Whole kiwis with kiwi slices in front

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Check out this guide on how to peel a kiwi. Peeling a kiwi might seem like a daunting task with its fuzzy exterior, but with the right technique, it can be a breeze. 

Whether you’re preparing a refreshing fruit salad or simply craving a nutritious snack, mastering the art of peeling a kiwi opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From avoiding the mess to preserving as much of the juicy fruit as possible, learning how to peel a kiwi efficiently can elevate your kitchen skills and enhance your enjoyment of this vibrant and delicious fruit. 

And DYK that kiwi is the world’s most nutrient-dense fruit? We have a few different methods that we will show you and let you decide which is your favorite.

Can You Eat the Skin of a Kiwi?

Whole kiwis on a plate

Yes, you can eat the skin of a kiwi! Kiwi skin is edible and contains a good amount of fiber and nutrients. Some people enjoy eating kiwis with the skin on, while others prefer to peel them. It’s entirely up to personal preference. If you choose to eat the skin, make sure to wash the kiwi thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.

Knife Method: How To Peel a Kiwi

How to peel a kiwi with a knife

Peeling a kiwi with a knife offers a straightforward approach to quickly remove its skin while minimizing waste. Start by rinsing the kiwi under cold water to clean it. 

Then, place the kiwi on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice off both ends (we call it the top and tail method), just enough to reveal the flesh inside. With one end stabilized on the cutting board, carefully insert the tip of the knife just under the skin at the top of the fruit. Following the curve of the kiwi, gently glide the knife downward, peeling off the skin in thin strips. Rotate the kiwi as needed, repeating the slicing motion until the entire skin has been removed. 

Once peeled, you can slice the kiwi into rounds, dice it for salads, or enjoy it as a whole fruit. This method ensures a clean and efficient peeling process, leaving you with the succulent green flesh of the kiwi ready to savor.

Spoon Method: How To Peel a Kiwi

How to peel a kiwi with a spoon

Peeling a kiwi with a spoon is a simple and efficient method that preserves the fruit’s flesh while removing the skin effortlessly. 

To begin, rinse the kiwi under cold water to clean its surface. Next, lay the kiwi on a cutting board and slice off both ends using a sharp knife, just enough to reveal the flesh. 

Then, take a serrated spoon or any teaspoon and insert it between the fruit and the skin, near one of the cut ends. Gently slide the spoon around the kiwi, following the curve of the fruit, while applying light pressure to separate the skin from the flesh. Continue this motion until you’ve encircled the entire kiwi.

Finally, slide the spoon underneath the skin to lift it off completely. With a quick and steady hand, you’ll unveil the vibrant green flesh of the kiwi, ready to be sliced, diced, or enjoyed whole.

How To Cut a Kiwi

slices of kiwi

Once you’ve peeled a kiwi, there are several ways to cut it depending on your preference and how you want to use it. Below are some common cutting methods:

Slice: Lay the kiwi horizontally on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, slice the kiwi into rounds of your desired thickness. These rounds can be used to top yogurt, garnish desserts, or to enjoy as a snack.

Dice: Alternatively, after slicing off both ends of the kiwi, stand it upright on one end. Carefully slice downward to create uniform slices, then rotate the kiwi a quarter turn and repeat, creating a grid-like pattern of slices.

Finally, turn the kiwi on its side and slice across the grid to create small kiwi cubes. Diced kiwi is perfect for adding to fruit salads, smoothie bowls, or incorporating into salsa.

Wedges: For a more rustic presentation, cut the peeled kiwi in half lengthwise, then slice each half into wedges. This method is great for serving kiwi as a snack, arranging on a fruit platter, or garnishing a beverage.

Whichever cutting method you choose, remember to use a sharp knife and handle the kiwi gently to avoid squishing the delicate flesh. 

How To Eat a Kiwi

Eating a kiwi is a delightful experience, whether you enjoy it as a standalone snack or incorporate it into various dishes. There are so many ways that you can eat and enjoy this superfruit!

Remember to savor the unique taste and texture of the kiwi, and feel free to experiment with different ways of incorporating it into your meals and snacks.

Our Favorite Recipes Using Kiwi

For more kiwi recipes and ideas, follow us on Pinterest.

Pinterest Pin How to Peel a Kiwi

About Kristin

Kristin Ahaus is the Director of Content and Communications for The Produce Moms. Her focus and passion is helping all of TPM's brand partners share their stories while also helping consumers understand how to select, serve and store fresh produce. Connect with Kristin on LinkedIN.

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