Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a delightful and simple dish that brings out the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple, enhanced with a touch of brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla, and kosher salt. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue, a tropical-themed party, or as a delicious dessert to finish any meal. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars, creating a beautiful and tasty char on the pineapple spears. With minimal prep time and ingredients, this recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy treat.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of vanilla.
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Vegetable oil spray, for the grill: Prevents sticking and helps achieve perfect grill marks.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple:
- Place the pineapple spears in a large bowl. Sprinkle with ¼ cup light brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt. Toss well to coat the pineapple evenly.
- Marinate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pineapple marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the pineapple to absorb the marinade. Ensure to retain the marinade liquid for later use.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your grill pan over high heat. Once hot, spray it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- Place the marinated pineapple spears on the hot grill pan. Grill for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until caramelized grill marks appear. This process should give the pineapple a beautiful char and intensify its sweetness.
- Prepare the Marinade Syrup:
- While grilling the pineapple, heat the reserved marinade liquid in a microwave-safe bowl until it becomes bubbly and syrupy, approximately 90 seconds. This syrup will be drizzled over the grilled pineapple for added flavor.
- Serve:
- Arrange the grilled pineapple spears on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle them with the warm marinade syrup. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky flavors of this delicious treat.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 0g
Serving
Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is best served warm, straight from the grill. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, a topping for salads, or a delicious dessert paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This dish is also a great addition to a tropical-themed menu, offering a burst of fresh, juicy flavor with every bite.
Notes
- Pineapple Preparation: Ensure the pineapple is peeled and cored properly to avoid any tough or fibrous bits. Fresh pineapple works best, but you can use canned pineapple spears in a pinch.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the pineapple overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes at room temperature will still yield delicious results.
- Grilling Tips: A grill pan is recommended for those without an outdoor grill. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the pineapple to achieve perfect grill marks.
- Adjusting Heat: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Conversely, increase it if you enjoy a spicier kick.
- Storage: Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe? Yes, you can use canned pineapple spears. Just make sure to drain them well before marinating.
What if I don’t have a grill pan? If you don’t have a grill pan, you can use an outdoor grill or a regular skillet. The grill marks might not be as pronounced, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I make the marinade syrup thicker? To make the marinade syrup thicker, you can reduce it further by heating it longer in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is there a substitute for brown sugar? You can substitute brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Each will add a slightly different flavor but will still complement the pineapple well.
Can I add other spices to the marinade? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with grilled pineapple? Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a splash of rum for an adult twist. It also complements grilled meats like chicken, pork, or steak.
Is this dish suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the pineapple and marinate it ahead of time. Grill the pineapple just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t like spicy food? If you don’t enjoy spicy food, simply omit the cayenne pepper. The pineapple will still be delicious with the brown sugar and vanilla.
Can I use this recipe for other fruits? Yes, this marinade works well with other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or mangoes. Adjust the grilling time as needed for different fruits.
In conclusion, Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a simple yet impressive dish that combines sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this versatile recipe can be served as a side dish, dessert, or even a topping for savory dishes. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with your loved ones!