Coconut-grilled Pineapple
Coconut-Grilled Pineapple Recipe from Kenya - Delicious Vegetarian Dessert for Any Occasion
Introduction
Coconut-grilled pineapple is a delicious and tropical dessert that is perfect for summer cookouts or backyard BBQs. The combination of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut milk, and warm cinnamon creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
History
This recipe is inspired by traditional Hawaiian cuisine, where pineapple is a staple ingredient in many dishes. Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes the sugars, creating a rich and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe golden pineapple
- 1 liter fresh coconut milk
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- sprigs of fresh mint, for garnish
- 1 qt (946 ml) vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt (optional)
How to prepare
- Set up the grill for direct grilling and preheat to high.
- Peel, slice, and core the pineapple.
- Pour coconut milk into a wide, shallow bowl.
- Place the sugar and cinnamon in another wide, shallow bowl and stir with a fork to mix.
- When ready to cook, brush and oil the grill grate.
- Dip each pineapple slice first in coconut milk, then in the sugar mixture, shaking off the excess between each dipping.
- Arrange the slices on the hot grate and grill until nicely browned on both sides, four to six minutes per side.
- Transfer the pineapple slices to plates or a platter for serving and garnish with mint sprigs.
- Or serve in bowls over ice cream.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top of the grilled pineapple for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle the grilled pineapple with a bit of honey or agave nectar for extra sweetness.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle the pineapple with a pinch of cayenne pepper before grilling.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for a pineapple that is golden in color and gives slightly when pressed.
- Be sure to preheat your grill before cooking the pineapple to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
- If you don't have fresh coconut milk, you can use canned coconut milk as a substitute. Just be sure to shake the can well before using.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle the grilled pineapple with a pinch of sea salt before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Coconut-grilled pineapple can be served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert. For a more indulgent treat, you can serve it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the pineapple over high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, creating a rich and smoky flavor. Be sure to watch the pineapple closely while grilling to prevent burning.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh pineapple, you can use canned pineapple slices for this recipe. Just be sure to drain the pineapple well before grilling.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the coconut milk and sugar mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This will save you time on the day of your cookout.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the grilled pineapple on a platter garnished with fresh mint sprigs for a beautiful and elegant presentation. You can also serve it in individual bowls with a scoop of ice cream for a more casual dessert option.
Pairing Recommendations
Coconut-grilled pineapple pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and tropical salads. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled shrimp skewers or a fresh mango salsa.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the pineapple for a few seconds or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of coconut-grilled pineapple contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dessert option that can be enjoyed guilt-free.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of coconut-grilled pineapple contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling your daily activities.
Fats
Each serving of coconut-grilled pineapple contains approximately 10 grams of fats. The fats in this dish come from the coconut milk, which is rich in healthy medium-chain fatty acids that can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss.
Proteins
Each serving of coconut-grilled pineapple contains approximately 2 grams of proteins. While this dish is not a significant source of protein, it can be paired with yogurt or ice cream to increase the protein content.
Vitamins and minerals
Coconut-grilled pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. Pineapple is also rich in manganese, a mineral that plays a key role in bone health and metabolism.
Alergens
This recipe contains coconut milk, which is a common allergen for some individuals. If you have a coconut allergy, you can substitute the coconut milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative.
Summary
Overall, coconut-grilled pineapple is a delicious and nutritious dessert option that is perfect for summer entertaining. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing essential nutrients for your body.
Summary
Coconut-grilled pineapple is a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its tropical flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your next cookout. Enjoy the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled pineapple with creamy coconut milk for a delicious and refreshing treat.
How did I get this recipe?
:
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for coconut-grilled pineapple. It was during my honeymoon in Hawaii many years ago. My husband and I had decided to splurge on a fancy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean. As we perused the menu, one particular dish caught my eye - coconut-grilled pineapple. I had never heard of such a combination before, but something about it intrigued me.
When the dish arrived at our table, I was immediately struck by the sweet aroma of caramelized pineapple and toasted coconut. The first bite was pure bliss - the juicy pineapple perfectly complemented by the crunchy coconut flakes and the hint of smokiness from the grill. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.
After that unforgettable meal, I knew I had to learn how to make coconut-grilled pineapple at home. I asked our waiter for the recipe, but he politely declined, saying it was a closely guarded secret of the restaurant. Undeterred, I set out on a mission to recreate the dish myself.
Over the years, I gathered bits and pieces of information about the recipe from various sources. I consulted cookbooks, scoured the internet, and even asked friends who had visited Hawaii for their insights. Eventually, after much trial and error, I perfected my own version of coconut-grilled pineapple.
The key, I discovered, was to marinate the pineapple slices in a mixture of coconut milk, brown sugar, and a splash of rum before grilling them. This not only added a rich, tropical flavor to the fruit but also helped to caramelize the sugars on the grill. The finishing touch was a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
I have since shared this recipe with friends and family, each time receiving rave reviews. It has become a signature dish of mine, a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for experimenting with flavors. Every time I make coconut-grilled pineapple, I am transported back to that magical evening in Hawaii, feeling the warm breeze on my skin and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore.
It brings me joy to think that this recipe, which I painstakingly pieced together over the years, has become a beloved favorite of those closest to me. I am proud to pass on this culinary tradition to future generations, knowing that it will continue to bring smiles to the faces of all who taste it.
So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of the tropics, look no further than my recipe for coconut-grilled pineapple. Just close your eyes, take a bite, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny beach in Hawaii. Enjoy every morsel, savoring the sweetness of the pineapple and the crunch of the coconut. And remember, behind every delicious dish lies a story - a story of love, passion, and the joy of sharing good food with those you hold dear.
Categories
| Coconut Milk Recipes | Grilled Desserts | Kenyan Desserts | Kenyan Recipes | Mint Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |