Grilling pineapple is a simple way to take your braai game to the next level. The heat caramelises the natural sugars in the pineapple, adding a smoky flavour while retaining its juicy sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or dessert, grilled pineapple is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these tips for grilling pineapple to get perfect results every time:
How to pick the perfect pineapple
Before you start grilling, it’s essential to pick the right pineapple. Look for one that’s mostly yellow with a slight green hue. It should feel firm with just a little give when squeezed, and it should feel heavy for its size, indicating high water content and juiciness. Avoid pineapples that are too green or too mushy, as these can be underripe or overripe.
How to cut pineapple for grilling
Cutting your pineapple correctly is key to easy grilling. We recommend cutting the fruit into long spears instead of rings for better handling on the grill. Here’s how:
- Chop off both ends of the pineapple.
- Trim the spiny skin by following the natural curve of the pineapple.
- Cut the pineapple in half, so you have two long, semi-circular halves.
- Score around the core and cut each half into spears.
- Remove the core with a spoon or knife, if needed.
ALSO SEE: Barbecue chicken and pineapple skewers
What you’ll need:
Once you’ve cut your pineapple into spears, it’s time to enhance its natural flavour with a marinade.
- Fresh pineapple
- Melted butter
- Honey
- Hot sauce (optional)
- Salt
Marinate the pineapple spears in the marinade before grilling to ensure every bite is packed with flavour.
Grilling Pineapple: Step-by-Step Guide
- Fire up the braai. You’ll want it hot enough to sear the pineapple and create those beautiful grill marks.
- Brush the pineapple spears with oil or the marinade. Use tongs to place them directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 4 minutes per side, or until you see a nice char. The sugars in the pineapple will caramelise, enhancing the flavour even more.
Serving suggestions
If you’re feeling adventurous, try dusting the pineapple with cinnamon and cayenne pepper before grilling for an added burst of sweet heat.
Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with meats, especially on kebabs or alongside grilled chicken and pork. For dessert, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or top it with whipped cream and nuts.
ALSO SEE: Easy tips for grilling bell peppers
Written by Bianca Muller.
Feature image: Pexels
