Brazilian Grilled Pineapple is a mouthwatering dessert or side dish that perfectly complements a summer barbecue or any grilled meal. Inspired by the churrascarias of Brazil, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple, enhanced by a caramelized coating of cinnamon and sugar. The heat of the grill intensifies the flavors, creating a juicy, tangy treat with a delightful hint of spice. Serve it as a refreshing dessert, a unique side, or even as a topping for ice cream to impress your guests with this tropical delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 large ripe pineapple
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pineapple:
- Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin, removing any remaining “eyes” with a small knife.
- Slice the pineapple into quarters lengthwise and remove the core from each quarter.
- Cut each quarter into thick spears or slices, depending on your preference.
- Season the Pineapple:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using).
- Brush the pineapple slices with the melted butter or coconut oil to help the sugar mixture adhere.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over all sides of the pineapple slices, coating them generously.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the sugar has caramelized and the pineapple has grill marks, turning occasionally.
- Be careful not to burn the sugar coating; adjust the heat if necessary.
- Serve:
- Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Serve the pineapple slices warm as a side dish, dessert, or even as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this Brazilian-inspired treat!
