Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large, ripe pineapple: The star of the show, providing juicy sweetness and a tropical base. Look for one that’s golden-yellow, fragrant at the base, and gives slightly to pressure.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a vegan option): Adds richness and helps with caramelization and browning on the grill.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: For a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic comforting spice note.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Provides an extra layer of warm spice, complementing the cinnamon.
- 2 tablespoons dark rum or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or coconut extract (optional): Rum adds a boozy kick and depth, while extracts offer aromatic complexity.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Approximately 8-12, depending on length and pineapple chunk size. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple:
- Lay the pineapple on its side and, using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice off the top crown and the bottom base.
- Stand the pineapple upright on one of its flat ends. Carefully slice downwards, following the curve of the pineapple, to remove the tough outer skin. Try to remove as many of the “eyes” as possible without taking too much flesh.
- Once peeled, you can either slice the pineapple into 1-inch thick rounds and then remove the core from each round using a small circular cookie cutter or an apple corer, OR you can quarter the pineapple lengthwise and then cut away the tough, woody core from each quarter.
- Cut the cored pineapple flesh into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch chunks. Uniformity is key for even grilling. You should get about 4-5 cups of pineapple chunks.
- Soak Wooden Skewers (if using):
- If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, place them in a shallow dish filled with water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning to a crisp on the hot grill. Metal skewers do not require this step.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter (or coconut oil), brown sugar, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, optional rum or extract, and the pinch of salt. Stir until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Marinate the Pineapple:
- Add the pineapple chunks to the bowl with the glaze. Gently toss the pineapple to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture.
- Let the pineapple marinate for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature. For a deeper flavor, you can cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours, but be mindful that pineapple can break down if marinated for too long due to its enzymes.
- Skewer the Pineapple:
- Thread the marinated pineapple chunks onto your soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers. Aim for about 4-6 pieces per skewer, depending on their length. Don’t pack them too tightly; a little space allows for more even cooking and caramelization. Reserve any leftover glaze in the bowl for basting.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C).
- Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush. Once clean, lightly oil the grates by wiping them with a paper towel dipped in a high smoke point oil (like canola or vegetable oil) held with tongs. This prevents the pineapple from sticking.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Place the pineapple skewers directly on the hot, oiled grill grates.
- Grill for about 3-5 minutes per side. You’re looking for beautiful grill marks and for the pineapple to become tender and slightly caramelized. The sugars in the glaze will help create this delicious char.
- During the last few minutes of grilling, you can brush the skewers with any remaining glaze from the marinating bowl for an extra layer of flavor and shine. Be careful, as the sugar can cause flare-ups.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the pineapple skewers are nicely caramelized and tender, carefully remove them from the grill using tongs and place them on a clean platter.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They will be very hot!
- Serve warm as is, or with your favorite accompaniments (see “How to Serve” section below).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 200