Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish or dessert? Look no further! This Brazilian Grilled Pineapple recipe is a game-changer. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. The caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple, balanced with a hint of spice, is a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a vibrant summer barbecue, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this simple yet extraordinary dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1-inch thick rings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
Start by peeling and coring the pineapple. A sharp knife works best for this. Once cored, slice the pineapple into rings about 1-inch thick. Try to keep the rings as uniform as possible for even grilling.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This simple mixture will create a delicious and aromatic glaze for your pineapple.
Step 3: Grill the Pineapple
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the pineapple rings on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened and caramelized. Be careful not to burn the pineapple; adjust the heat as needed. Brush the pineapple rings generously with the butter-sugar glaze during the last minute of grilling.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet and savory delight! This Brazilian grilled pineapple is fantastic on its own, alongside grilled meats, or even as a unique topping for ice cream.
Tips for the Best Grilled Pineapple:
- Pineapple Ripeness: Choose a ripe pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. A ripe pineapple will have a sweeter and more intense flavor when grilled.
- Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Leave some space between the pineapple rings to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. A dash of chili powder could add a delightful kick for those who like a little heat.
- Alternative Grilling Methods: If you don't have a grill, you can achieve similar results by pan-frying the pineapple in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat.
Variations:
- Spicy Pineapple: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy twist.
- Coconut Pineapple: Incorporate a tablespoon of shredded coconut into the glaze for a tropical flavor.
- Rum Pineapple: Add a tablespoon of dark rum to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor (for adults only!).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 1g
This Brazilian grilled pineapple recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for quick dinner ideas and showcases the beauty of homemade cooking. It's one of the best recipes for a delicious dish that both beginners and experienced cooks will appreciate. Enjoy!