International Cuisine > Cooking Techniques Across Cultures > Grilling & Barbecue (International) > Churrasco (Brazilian)
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon-Sugar: A Brazilian Delight
Experience the sweet and smoky flavors of Brazil with this Grilled Pineapple recipe. A simple yet delicious dessert, perfect after a Churrasco or as a standalone treat. Learn how to grill pineapple to perfection and create a caramelized cinnamon-sugar crust.
Ingredients
- 1 Fresh Pineapple
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons Butter (optional)
Preparing the Pineapple
Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand the pineapple upright and carefully cut away the skin, following the curve of the pineapple. Remove any remaining 'eyes' with a paring knife. You can either cut the pineapple into rings (about 1 inch thick) or into spears.
Making the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well.
Grilling the Pineapple
Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using butter, melt it and brush it lightly on the pineapple slices. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over both sides of the pineapple. Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is heated through and slightly softened. The sugar should caramelize and create a delicious crust.
Serving the Grilled Pineapple
Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and serve immediately. It's delicious on its own, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or as a topping for yogurt or granola.
Optional: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on size of portion.
Calories: 80-120 kcal
Protein: 0.5-1g
Fat: 0.5-1g (without butter)
Carbohydrates: 20-30g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
Pineapple is a good source of Vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars, enhancing the sweetness. Using butter adds extra fat and calories, so consider omitting it or using a light spray of cooking oil instead.
FAQ
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Can I grill the pineapple indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or an indoor electric grill. Follow the same cooking instructions as for an outdoor grill. -
How do I know when the pineapple is ripe?
A ripe pineapple should have a sweet aroma and give slightly when squeezed. The leaves in the center should also pull out easily. -
Can I use canned pineapple?
While fresh pineapple is preferred, you can use canned pineapple rings or chunks. Be sure to drain them well and pat them dry before grilling.