The Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze is a delightful dish that brings together sweet, smoky flavors with just a hint of heat. This recipe is perfect for BBQs, desserts, or even as a unique side dish for your summer gatherings. With its vibrant taste and easy preparation, it’s sure to impress guests at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dessert, side dish, or even as a topping for grilled meats—its versatility knows no bounds.
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet brown sugar and spicy cayenne pepper creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Perfect for Summer: This dish embodies the essence of summer BBQs, making it an ideal addition to your outdoor gatherings.
- Healthier Dessert Option: Grilled fruit provides a lighter alternative to traditional desserts while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious grilled pineapple.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill pan
- Large bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill pan: Provides even heating and creates those beautiful grill marks on the pineapple.
- Large bowl: Perfect for marinating the pineapple, allowing all flavors to meld together effectively.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for quickly reheating the marinade into a delicious syrup without fuss.
Ingredients
A sweet and smoky tropical treat with a hint of heat—perfect for BBQs, desserts, or a unique side dish!
For the Pineapple
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Step 1: Marinate the Pineapple
- In a large bowl, toss pineapple spears with brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt.
- Cover the bowl and let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Preheat Grill
- Heat your grill pan over high heat.
- Spray lightly with vegetable oil spray just before grilling to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill Pineapple
- Place marinated pineapple spears on the hot grill.
- Grill each spear for 1–2 minutes per side until caramelized and lightly charred.
Step 4: Make Syrup
- Pour leftover marinade into a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in the microwave for about 90 seconds or until bubbly and thickened.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange grilled pineapple on a serving platter.
- Drizzle warm syrup over the top before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze!
How to Serve Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or as a dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance its tropical flavor and spice.
As a Dessert
- Serve warm: Enjoy the grilled pineapple warm, drizzled with the brown sugar glaze for a comforting dessert experience.
- Pair with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream complements the spicy sweetness perfectly.
As a Side Dish
- Accompany grilled meats: This pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or pork, adding a fruity contrast to savory dishes.
- Serve alongside salads: Toss grilled pineapple into a fresh salad for an unexpected burst of flavor and texture.
In Fruit Skewers
- Create fruit skewers: Alternate pineapple spears with other fruits like strawberries or mango for a colorful and tasty presentation.
- Add to fruit salads: Mix pieces of grilled pineapple into fruit salads for an exciting twist on traditional recipes.
As a Topping
- Use on burgers: Add grilled pineapple as a topping on burgers for an extra layer of flavor.
- Enhance pancakes or waffles: Drizzle the warm syrup over breakfast favorites like pancakes or waffles for a tropical morning treat.
How to Perfect Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
To achieve the best results when making Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze, follow these simple tips.
- Choose ripe pineapples: Select fresh, ripe pineapples for optimal sweetness and flavor. Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance. Start small and increase gradually if desired.
- Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the pineapple overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to infuse better.
- Monitor grill temperature: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the pineapple on it. This helps achieve that perfect caramelization without overcooking.
- Baste while grilling: Brush some extra marinade onto the pineapple spears while grilling to enhance their glaze and flavor.
- Serve immediately: For the best taste, serve the grilled pineapple right after cooking while it’s still warm and juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze can be paired with several delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Rice: A fragrant side dish that adds creaminess and balances out spicy flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn enhances the tropical vibes of this dish.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and peppers provides protein and crunch to your meal.
- Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw offers contrast while its tangy dressing complements the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and citrus makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with grilled fruit.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add earthy flavors that beautifully balance sweet notes from the pineapple.
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa: The crunchiness of chips along with zesty salsa adds fun and texture next to sweet grilled slices.
- Garlic Bread: An unexpected yet delightful pairing; warm garlic bread brings comfort alongside exotic flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze, there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome of this delicious dish.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the pineapple to marinate for at least 30 minutes can result in less flavor. To enhance taste, let it sit longer if possible, ideally overnight.
- Using Overripe Pineapple: Selecting a pineapple that is too ripe can lead to mushy spears that won’t grill well. Choose a firm pineapple with a sweet aroma for the best texture.
- Neglecting Grill Temperature: Failing to preheat the grill adequately may prevent caramelization. Always ensure your grill is hot before adding the pineapple for perfect charring.
- Not Using Cooking Spray: Forgetting to spray the grill with oil can cause sticking and tearing. Lightly coat the grill surface to ensure easy flipping of the pineapple spears.
- Ignoring Leftover Marinade: Discarding leftover marinade instead of using it as syrup means losing out on extra flavor. Always microwave it and drizzle it over grilled pineapple for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best flavor and texture.
Freezing Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months; label with date.
Reheating Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, but avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common queries regarding Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple; however, fresh pineapple provides better texture and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The level of spice primarily comes from cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
What should I serve with Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, ice cream, or yogurt for dessert, making it versatile for any meal.
Can I customize the glaze?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for different flavor profiles while maintaining the key ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze offers a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that make it perfect for BBQs or as an innovative dessert. Its versatility allows you to adjust spices or pairings based on personal taste, making it an exciting addition to any gathering. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze
Spicy Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze is the ultimate summer treat that fuses sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for BBQs, desserts, or a unique side dish. This vibrant dish features juicy pineapple spears marinated in a blend of brown sugar and cayenne pepper, then grilled to perfection for a caramelized finish. The warm syrup drizzled on top elevates this dish, making it an unforgettable addition to any gathering. With its simple preparation process, it’s ideal for cooks of all levels who want to impress their guests. Enjoy it warm or use it as a topping for grilled meats, ice cream, or salads—its versatility knows no bounds!
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 1 fresh whole pineapple (peeled, cored, 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 the grill)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple spears with brown sugar, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill pan over high heat and spray lightly with vegetable oil.
- Grill marinated pineapple spears for 1–2 minutes on each side until caramelized.
- Heat leftover marinade in a microwave-safe bowl until bubbly.
- Serve grilled pineapple topped with warm syrup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 spear
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For optimal sweetness, choose ripe pineapples. Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference. Marinate overnight for a richer flavor.