Delish Grilled Pineapple: An Alton Brown Inspired Delight

My first encounter with grilled pineapple wasn’t exactly planned. A summer barbecue gone slightly awry – a rogue downpour sending everyone scurrying indoors – left me with a half-eaten, perfectly ripe pineapple and a still-hot grill. Impulsively, I tossed a few slices on, hoping for the best. The resulting caramelized, smoky sweetness was a revelation! It was so simple, yet so extraordinary. Years later, I discovered Alton Brown’s version and knew I had stumbled upon a true classic.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 slices
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 3 teaspoons dark brown sugar
• 1 pineapple, cut into 6, 1-inch wedge slices
• Vegetable oil, for coating the grill

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the spice rub. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the kosher salt, chili powder, and dark brown sugar. Ensure there are no clumps of brown sugar.

2. Next, prepare the pineapple. Take each pineapple slice and generously sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides, pressing lightly to help it adhere. Make sure each side is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Once hot, use a brush or paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to lightly coat the grill grates. This prevents the pineapple from sticking.

4. Carefully place the spiced pineapple slices onto the preheated, oiled grill. Grill for 1 minute on each side. This initial burst of high heat helps to create those beautiful grill marks and begin the caramelization process.

5. Reduce the heat to low. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the pineapple has softened and the sugar has caramelized on the edges. Watch closely to prevent burning. You’re looking for a deep golden-brown color and tender texture.

6. Remove the grilled pineapple slices from the grill and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the salting: Salt is key to unlocking the pineapple’s sweetness and balancing the spice.
• Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to your preference. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add an extra kick.
• Use a hot grill: A hot grill is essential for achieving proper caramelization.
• Watch for burning: Brown sugar burns easily, so keep a close eye on the pineapple while it’s grilling, especially on the low heat stage.
• Pineapple ripeness: Make sure your pineapple is ripe but still firm enough to hold its shape on the grill. Overripe pineapple will become too mushy.
• Consider core removal: Some prefer to remove the tough core of the pineapple before slicing. It’s entirely up to you.
• Skewers for easy handling: If your pineapple wedges are a little unstable, thread them onto wooden skewers before grilling for easier flipping and serving.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Grilled pineapple is best served immediately while it’s warm and the caramelized sugar is still glistening. It makes a fantastic addition to grilled chicken or pork, a topping for burgers, or even a unique dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can briefly grill them again, pan-fry them, or even microwave them for a short period. Microwaving might make them a little softer, so grilling or pan-frying is preferred.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	48 kcal	2%
Fat	0.2g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	781mg	32%
Carbohydrates	12g	4%
Fiber	1g	5%
Sugars	9g	38%
Protein	0.5g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Honey-Lime Glaze: Whisk together honey, lime juice, and a pinch of ginger for a sweet and tangy glaze. Brush it on during the last minute of grilling.
• Cinnamon Spice: Add a dash of cinnamon to the spice rub for a warmer, more dessert-like flavor.
• Coconut Sugar: Replace the dark brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor profile and a lower glycemic index.
• Different Chilies: Experiment with different chili powders or flakes for varying levels of heat. Ancho chili powder will provide a smoky sweetness, while habanero flakes will add a serious punch.
• Rum Flambé: For a dramatic presentation, carefully drizzle a small amount of dark rum over the pineapple during the last minute of grilling and ignite it. Exercise extreme caution when working with open flames.
• Make it a salsa: Dice the grilled pineapple and combine it with red onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice for a refreshing salsa.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
A: While you can use canned pineapple, fresh pineapple is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Canned pineapple tends to be much softer and may not grill as well.

Q: What type of grill is best for this recipe?
A: Both gas and charcoal grills work well. A grill pan on a stovetop is also a suitable alternative.

Q: How do I know when the pineapple is done?
A: The pineapple is done when it has softened slightly and the edges are nicely caramelized. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will become mushy.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While grilled pineapple is best served immediately, you can prepare the spice rub and slice the pineapple in advance. Store the pineapple slices separately until ready to grill.

Q: What can I serve with grilled pineapple?
A: Grilled pineapple pairs well with grilled meats, ice cream, yogurt, or can be used as a topping for tacos and salads.

Final Thoughts

Alton Brown’s grilled pineapple recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes on the grill, you can transform a humble pineapple into a flavor explosion. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just looking for a quick and easy dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and discover the magic of caramelized pineapple for yourself! And don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavors to create your own signature twist. Share your creations and feedback – happy grilling!