Enzymes occur naturally in raw fruits and vegetables.  Some of these naturally occurring enzymes can even assist in our digestive processes.  Bromelain is one of the best known naturally occurring digestive enzyme and can be found in the core and stem of the pineapple plant. Bromelain is commonly bottled and sold as a dietary supplement for reducing pain and swelling.  Bromelain is often recommended following a surgery, especially of the nose and sinuses, gums.  Ingestible bromelain is promoted for helping with symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, cancer, digestive problems, and muscle soreness, and topical bromelain is promoted for healing skin burns.  It may come as no surprise, natives of Central and South America used pineapple for a variety of ailments, such as digestive disorders.  The core of the pineapple, which is often discarded, actually contains the highest levels of bromelain.   SH&W’s Easy Pineapple Salsa recipe is the perfect way to incorporate the pineapple core into your diet.  Save the soft fleshy pieces for dessert and top of your entrée with this delicious, fresh, and healthy treat.

1 Pineapple

1/2 Sweet or Red Onion (Diced)

1/2 Bunch Fresh Cilantro (Minced)

1 Heirloom Tomato (Diced)

1 Lime (Juiced)

1-2 Serrano Peppers (Minced)

1 Dash Fresh Ground Black Pepper

Sea Salt to taste

Peel pineapple and cut in half longitudinally.

Remove the core leaving a generous amount of the soft flesh attached to the core.

Dice the pineapple and add to a medium sized mixing bowl

Add onion, heirloom tomato, cilantro, lime juice, serrano peppers, black pepper.

Mix thoroughly and add sea salt to taste.

Serve on tacos or over your favorite fish with a side of black beans and rice.