The recipe for Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a delicious, sweet, and slightly spiced treat that makes for a fantastic dessert or side dish. Grilling pineapple caramelizes its natural sugars, bringing out its sweetness while adding a smoky, charred flavor. This Brazilian-inspired version takes it up a notch by coating the pineapple slices in a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar before grilling, creating a beautifully glazed exterior with a warm, spiced kick.

Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light, refreshing dessert, Brazilian Grilled Pineapple pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to tropical desserts. It’s a simple, quick recipe that packs a flavorful punch, offering a delightful balance between the tangy brightness of pineapple and the warmth of cinnamon. For an extra indulgence, you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle of honey.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
Prepare the Pineapple: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside. Take your peeled and cored pineapple and cut it into thick rings or wedges, depending on your preference.

Coat the Pineapple: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture over each pineapple slice, making sure to cover both sides. Press the mixture gently into the pineapple to help it adhere.
Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the sugar has caramelized and grill marks appear. The pineapple should be lightly charred but still juicy.
Serve: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm, either on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, or alongside grilled meats.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 6 minutes

Total Time: 16 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings

Customization Options

While the classic version of this recipe uses cinnamon and brown sugar to create a sweet, caramelized crust, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste:

Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This will create a sweet and spicy contrast that works surprisingly well with the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
Citrus Zest: You can add an extra layer of flavor by mixing in some lemon or lime zest with the sugar. The citrus will complement the bright flavor of the pineapple, giving it a more zesty, refreshing taste.

Rum-Infused: For an adult version, lightly brush the pineapple with a little dark rum before adding the cinnamon-sugar coating. This will give the pineapple a deeper, more complex flavor and elevate it to a gourmet dessert.
Healthier Version: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index. You can also omit the sugar entirely and rely on the natural sweetness of the pineapple.

Serving Suggestions

Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

As a Dessert: Serve the warm grilled pineapple slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
With Grilled Meats: The sweetness of the pineapple makes it a great accompaniment to savory dishes like grilled chicken, pork, or even steak. Its natural acidity helps balance the richness of the meat.
In a Tropical Salad: For a lighter option, serve the grilled pineapple over a bed of greens with some avocado, toasted coconut flakes, and a citrus vinaigrette for a tropical salad.

Topping for Breakfast: You can chop the grilled pineapple into smaller chunks and add it as a topping to oatmeal, yogurt, or even pancakes for a sweet breakfast twist.

Health Benefits of Pineapple

Pineapple is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and manganese, which is important for bone health. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and may reduce inflammation. When grilled, pineapple maintains its nutritional value while gaining a rich, caramelized flavor from the heat.

Grilling Tips

Watch the Grill Heat: Make sure your grill is at medium-high heat to get a good caramelization on the sugar without burning the pineapple. If the heat is too high, the sugar can burn before the pineapple is fully cooked.

Use a Grill Pan: If you’re worried about the pineapple sticking to the grill or falling through the grates, you can use a grill pan or thread the pineapple slices onto skewers.
Don’t Overcook: Pineapple grills quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. You want it to be soft and slightly charred but still juicy.

Brazilian Influence on Grilled Pineapple

Brazilian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, often combining sweet and savory elements. Grilled pineapple is a popular side dish in Brazilian steakhouses, known as churrascarias, where it’s served alongside various cuts of grilled meats. The combination of the fruit’s sweetness and the caramelization from grilling makes it a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of grilled meats, such as beef, pork, or chicken.

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Brazilian churrasco, a method of barbecuing that dates back to the 17th century. Pineapple, coated with a sugar and cinnamon mixture, complements the meats served in these establishments, offering a balance of flavors on the plate.

Health Benefits

Grilled pineapple is not only a tasty dish but also a healthy option that comes with various benefits:

Rich in Vitamin C: Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is vital for immune health, skin protection, and wound healing.

Contains Antioxidants: Pineapple contains a variety of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Aids Digestion: The bromelain enzyme in pineapple supports digestion by breaking down proteins, making it a great dessert or side dish to pair with heavier, protein-rich meals.
Low-Calorie Dessert: With its natural sweetness, pineapple offers a low-calorie alternative to processed desserts. The addition of a light dusting of cinnamon and sugar enhances its flavor without adding excessive calories.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can still make this delicious dish indoors:

Stovetop Grill Pan: A grill pan on the stovetop will work just as well to achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization. Heat the pan over medium-high heat, and proceed as you would with a traditional grill.
Broiling: Place the pineapple slices on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they begin to caramelize and turn golden brown.

Air Fryer: Another convenient method is using an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and grill the pineapple for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through for even caramelization.

Pairing Ideas

Brazilian Grilled Pineapple can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various dishes:

Grilled Meats: Traditionally served with churrasco meats such as steak, pork, or chicken. The sweetness of the pineapple cuts through the richness of grilled meats, balancing the meal.

Desserts: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, frozen yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.
Cocktails: Grilled pineapple can also be used as a garnish or ingredient in tropical cocktails, such as piña coladas, mojitos, or daiquiris. The grilled fruit adds a smoky depth of flavor to these refreshing drinks.
Salads: Incorporate grilled pineapple into a salad with mixed greens, avocado, and grilled shrimp or chicken for a light, summery meal. Drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage and Leftovers

Grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can:

Reheat: Warm it in the microwave for a few seconds, or briefly toss it back on the grill for a quick reheat.
Repurpose: Use leftover grilled pineapple as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes for a tropical breakfast. You can also blend it into smoothies for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition

Conclusion

Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of Brazil to your table. With its caramelized sweetness, spiced coating, and smoky char, it’s a standout side dish or dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy treat, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and simplicity. Enjoy the taste of the tropics with this delightful recipe!

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