Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Indulging in the sweet and spicy delight of Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is like enjoying a taste of summer all year round. Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars and adds a smoky char that takes this fruit to an entirely new level. Imagine juicy, caramelized pineapple spears bursting with flavor, thanks to a simple yet effective marinade featuring brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and a hint of vanilla extract. This recipe is perfect for outdoor barbecues, casual dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with a unique and delicious treat.

Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also comes together in under an hour, allowing you to savor delicious grilled pineapple without any hassle. The combination of sweetness from the brown sugar and the kick from the cayenne pepper makes it an exciting side dish or a delightful dessert that you can serve warm, straight off the grill. As the caramelized sugars create a glossy finish, each bite is a marriage of flavors that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re entertaining friends or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is a dish that adds a gourmet touch to your meal while being completely vegetarian-friendly. Follow this easy guide, and you’ll have a spectacular grilled treat that is both simple and sophisticated.

Ingredients

1 fresh whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 8 spears
¼ cup light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Vegetable oil spray for grill

Instructions

Start by preparing the pineapple. Take a fresh whole pineapple and carefully peel, core, and cut it into eight spears. The sweetness of the pineapple will be beautifully enhanced by the grilling process.

Next, place the pineapple spears in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the light brown sugar evenly over the surfaces of the spears. To add a touch of spice, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, followed by the vanilla extract and kosher salt. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the pineapple spears until they are well-coated with the mixture. This marinade not only elevates the pineapple’s sweetness but also adds an intriguing flavor depth.

Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Allow the pineapple to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes at room temperature. For an even richer flavor, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator. This step allows the ingredients to soak into the pineapple, resulting in a more flavorful end product.

After marination, it’s time to preheat your grill. If you’re using a grill pan, turn the heat up to high and lightly spray it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. The grill needs to be hot enough to give the pineapple that attractive char without overcooking.

Now, take the marinated pineapple spears and place them on the grill. Cook each spear for 1-2 minutes on each side. Watch closely as they grill; you’ll want to see them getting caramelized and slightly charred, enhancing their sweetness and adding a fantastic smoky flavor.

While the pineapple is grilling, you can prepare the syrup from the marinade. Take the remaining marinade liquid and pour it into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave for about 90 seconds or until it becomes syrupy. This syrup will be drizzled over the grilled pineapple, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Once the pineapple spears are done grilling and are beautifully caramelized, remove them from the grill. Just before serving, drizzle the warmed syrup over the top. This finishing touch will elevate the flavor, making every bite a sweet and spicy experience.

Variations

Although the Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple recipe is delicious as it is, you can certainly mix things up and customize it to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Spiced Coconut Version: Add some shredded coconut to the marinade for a tropical flair. Grill the pineapple with the coconut for added texture and flavor.
Honey Glaze: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness. Drizzle honey over the spears right before grilling.
Rum Infusion: For a boozy twist, add a splash of rum to the marinade. This will add an extra depth of flavor as the rum caramelizes during grilling.
Add More Heat: Increase the cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicier kick. You can also add a sprinkle of chili powder for added heat.
Ginger Zing: Incorporate some grated fresh ginger into the marinade for a unique spicy-sweet combination.

Cooking Notes

Grilling is an art, and a few helpful tips can elevate your results. Here are some suggestions to help you succeed with this recipe:

Choosing Pineapple: Select a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma at the base. The flesh should give slightly when pressed.
Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated enough. High heat is crucial for achieving those lovely grill marks.
Marinating Time: While 30 minutes is sufficient, longer marination times will provide deeper flavor penetration.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just apply it to the pineapple spears before grill time.
Serving Hot: Serve the grilled pineapple immediately while it’s warm for the best flavor experience.

Serving Suggestions

Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. It can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful snack or dessert. Serve it alongside grilled meats for a slightly sweet contrast, or present it as part of a fruit platter for a refreshing touch. You might also consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that beautifully complements the flavors. Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips

Prepare the marinade ahead of time for a quicker preparation.
Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
Use a gas grill or charcoal grill for optimal results.
Keep an eye on the pineapple while grilling to avoid burning.
Try pairing with yogurt or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 110

Protein: 1g

Sodium: 25mg

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple if necessary. Just make sure to rinse and pat them dry before marinating. Keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly less.

2. How can I store leftovers?

Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a quick warm-up on the grill or in the microwave will restore some flavors.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple recipe is naturally gluten-free. Make sure to use a gluten-free vegetable oil spray if you choose to use one.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that any additional toppings, like ice cream, are dairy-free if you want to keep it entirely vegan.

5. What dishes pair well with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs excellently with both sweet and savory dishes. It’s fantastic alongside grilled meats, seafood, or on top of salads. Additionally, it makes for a great topping for burgers or as an ingredient in salsas.

Conclusion

In summary, Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple is an easy and delicious recipe that brings a unique sweetness to the table. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also a fun dish that can accompany many meals or be enjoyed alone. The balanced flavors of sweet and spicy make it a versatile option suitable for any occasion. I encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with anyone who loves to grill. Get ready to impress friends and family with this delightful treat!