Brazilian Grilled Pineapple
If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish or dessert, this Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a must-try! The natural sweetness of fresh pineapple is enhanced by a coating of brown sugar and cinnamon, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The result is a juicy, slightly crispy, and perfectly spiced treat that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent addition to summer barbecues. It can also be served as a light and refreshing dessert that’s both delicious and satisfying.
This dish is inspired by Brazilian churrasco-style grilled pineapple, often served at steakhouses as a way to balance out the richness of grilled meats. The combination of warm cinnamon and deep caramelized sugar creates an irresistible flavor that brings out the fruit’s natural juiciness.
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar – Provides a deep caramel-like sweetness that enhances the pineapple’s natural flavor.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.
1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 6 wedges – Fresh pineapple is best for grilling, offering the ideal balance of acidity and sweetness.
Directions
1. Preheat the Grill
Begin by heating an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it for about 10 minutes. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If an outdoor grill isn’t available, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop for a similar effect.
2. Mix the Coating
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will coat the pineapple wedges and help create that delicious caramelized crust when grilled.
3. Coat the Pineapple
Transfer the brown sugar mixture to a large resealable plastic bag. Add the pineapple wedges to the bag, seal it, and shake well to evenly coat each piece with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. If you prefer, you can also use a large bowl and toss the pineapple wedges in the sugar mixture with your hands or a spoon.
4. Grill the Pineapple
Place the coated pineapple wedges on the hot grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the sugar caramelizes and the pineapple develops beautiful grill marks. The heat intensifies the fruit’s natural sweetness, making it extra juicy and flavorful. Be sure to watch closely, as the sugar can burn quickly if left unattended.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pineapple is golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a sweet side dish alongside grilled meats like steak, pork, or chicken, or enjoy it as a light and refreshing dessert. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 255
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 66g
Protein: 1g
Tips & Variations
Add a citrus twist – Squeeze a bit of fresh lime or orange juice over the pineapple before grilling for a zesty, tangy flavor.
Try it with honey – Drizzle a little honey over the pineapple wedges before grilling for an extra layer of sweetness and a slightly sticky caramelization.
Serve with ice cream – This grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with vanilla, coconut, or cinnamon ice cream for a tropical dessert.
Spice it up – For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture to create a sweet-and-spicy contrast.
This Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a quick, easy, and delicious way to elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or enjoying it as a sweet snack, this dish will impress with its caramelized texture and rich cinnamon flavor. Give it a try and savor the tropical goodness! 🌿🔥🍍
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