Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is a delightful treat that brings a burst of tropical flavor to your summer gatherings. This dish is not just a side; it can elevate your BBQ or picnic with its sweet and savory notes. The caramelization process enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Perfect for various occasions, this recipe will impress your guests and become a staple at your summer get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

This dish is sure to win hearts and taste buds alike.

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert or side dish.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a rich glaze that intensifies the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side with grilled meats, or enjoy it as a dessert topped with ice cream!
• Perfect for Summer: This recipe is ideal for outdoor grilling and summer parties, making it a go-to for warm weather dishes.
• Healthy Twist: Grilled fruit offers a healthier option compared to traditional sweets, while still satisfying your cravings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking brush
• Pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect heat source for caramelizing the pineapple while adding those lovely grill marks.
• Mixing Bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients effortlessly without mess.
• Cooking Brush: Helps evenly coat the pineapple with the delicious glaze for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple:

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple cut into spears
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter melted
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by laying the pineapple spears on a pan. Lightly sprinkle them with cinnamon to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

Whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. If the mixture seems too thick, microwave it for a few seconds until it becomes pourable.

Step 3: Coat the Pineapple

Using a cooking brush, spread the buttery glaze generously over each pineapple spear, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4: Grill

Place the coated pineapple spears on medium heat on the grill. Grill them for about 7-10 minutes or until they start turning golden brown. Don’t forget to brush any excess sauce from the pan onto the pineapple before serving!

Enjoy this sweet treat at your next gathering!

How to Serve Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is a delicious and versatile side that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Savory Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: The sweetness of the caramelized pineapple complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken perfectly.
• Pork Chops: Serve the pineapple alongside juicy pork chops for a delightful contrast between sweet and savory.
• Fish Tacos: Add grilled pineapple to fish tacos for a tropical twist that brightens up each bite.

Use as a Dessert Topping

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Top a scoop of vanilla ice cream with warm grilled pineapple for a simple yet indulgent dessert.
• Pancakes or Waffles: Elevate your breakfast by adding caramelized pineapple on top of pancakes or waffles, drizzled with maple syrup.
• Cheesecake: Use the grilled pineapple as a topping for cheesecake, adding a burst of flavor that balances the richness.

Create a Tropical Salad

• Fruit Salad: Mix the grilled pineapple with other tropical fruits like mango and kiwi for a refreshing summer salad.
• Spinach Salad: Toss spinach with grilled pineapple, nuts, and feta cheese for a light but flavorful side salad.

How to Perfect Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Achieving the perfect Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is easy with these tips. Follow them to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Choice of Pineapple: Select ripe pineapples that are firm and have a sweet aroma. This ensures maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Bold Preparation: Cut the pineapple into uniform spears for even grilling. This helps each piece cook at the same rate.
• Bold Marinade Warm-Up: Warm your brown sugar mixture slightly before applying it to make it easier to coat the pineapple evenly.
• Bold Grill Technique: Preheat your grill properly. A hot grill creates those beautiful caramelization marks without overcooking the fruit.
• Bold Basting: Brush extra sauce over the pineapple halfway through grilling for an added layer of flavor and moisture.
• Bold Serving Temperature: Serve immediately after grilling while it’s warm to enjoy the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice: This fluffy rice dish adds tropical flavors that harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, soft texture of caramelized fruit.
3. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and vegetables offers a healthy balance and nutty flavor profile.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and earthiness that complement the sweet notes of grilled pineapple.
5. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can serve as an excellent vehicle for scooping up bites of both savory dishes and sweet fruit.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn brings out its natural sweetness, making it an ideal companion for caramelized dishes like this one.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds color and nutrition, enhancing your plate’s appeal while balancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when grilling pineapple, especially when aiming for the perfect caramelized flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Prepping the Pineapple Properly: Failing to cut the pineapple into even spears can result in uneven cooking. Ensure uniformity for consistent grilling results.
• Skipping the Cinnamon: Neglecting to add cinnamon can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always include this spice to enhance the sweetness of the caramelized brown sugar.
• Grilling at Too High a Temperature: Cooking on high heat can burn the sugar before the pineapple has a chance to caramelize. Stick to medium heat for best results.
• Not Basting Enough: Skipping the basting step can lead to dry pieces. Brush the pineapple with excess sauce during grilling for added moisture and flavor.
• Overcooking the Pineapple: Leaving it on the grill too long can cause mushiness. Grill just until golden brown for that perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pineapple on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, turning occasionally until warmed, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple:

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, using fresh pineapple is recommended as it yields the best flavor and texture compared to canned options.

How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?

Your grilled pineapple is ready when it turns golden brown and has visible grill marks, usually after about 7-10 minutes on medium heat.

What can I serve with Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, is great as a barbecue side, or even served over ice cream for dessert!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other spices like nutmeg or use different sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup for variety.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple is an irresistible treat that complements many summer dishes beautifully. Its sweet and buttery glaze makes it versatile enough to serve as a side dish or dessert. Feel free to experiment with spices or toppings like whipped cream or nuts to personalize your experience!