Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine Recipe from Mozambique
Introduction
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the rich flavors of port wine. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for serving at dinner parties or special occasions.
History
This recipe for Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine has been enjoyed for generations, with its origins dating back to the tropical regions where pineapples are grown. The combination of sweet pineapple and fortified wine creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Peel one large ripe sweet pineapple.
- Cut the pineapple into slices that are 0.5 inches thick and remove the core.
- Lightly sprinkle sugar on both sides of each slice.
- Place the slices in a 2 qt (1.89 liter) glass or china bowl.
- Cover the pineapple slices with 0.5 cup of red port wine.
- Allow the pineapple to marinate in the wine for several hours.
- Occasionally turn the pineapple slices in the wine.
- Just before serving, turn the pineapple slices again.
- Serve the pineapple on dessert dishes with spoons and forks.
Variations
- For a twist on this classic recipe, try grilling the pineapple slices before marinating them in port wine. The caramelized flavors from the grill will add a smoky depth to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When selecting a pineapple for this recipe, choose one that is ripe and sweet. Look for a pineapple that is golden yellow in color and gives slightly when pressed. To easily remove the core of the pineapple slices, use a sharp knife to cut around the tough center.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine can be served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert. For added indulgence, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Cooking Techniques
To enhance the flavors of the pineapple and port wine, allow the fruit to marinate for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This will give the pineapple slices time to absorb the sweet and tangy flavors of the wine, creating a deliciously decadent dessert.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have port wine on hand, you can substitute with a sweet dessert wine such as sherry or Madeira. You can also use fresh orange juice or pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic version of this recipe. Feel free to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences.
Make Ahead Tips
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, give the pineapple slices a quick stir to ensure they are evenly coated in the wine.
Presentation Ideas
To make this dessert even more visually appealing, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey. You can also serve the pineapple slices on a bed of fresh berries or a scoop of sorbet for a colorful and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine pairs well with a variety of dessert wines, such as Moscato or Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, serve this dish with a glass of sparkling water or fruit-infused iced tea. The sweet and tangy flavors of the pineapple will complement the crisp and refreshing notes of the wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the pineapple slices in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 30 seconds, or until warmed through. Serve immediately for a quick and easy dessert option.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light and refreshing dessert option. This dish is perfect for those looking for a sweet treat without the guilt of excess calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The natural sugars in the pineapple provide a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for dessert.
Fats
There is minimal fat in this recipe, making it a light and healthy option for those watching their fat intake. The nuts sprinkled on top of the pineapple slices add a touch of crunch and texture without adding excess fat.
Proteins
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine is not a significant source of protein, with only a small amount present in the nuts. However, this dessert is a delicious way to enjoy the natural flavors of pineapple and wine without the need for added protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. Additionally, the nuts in this recipe provide essential minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which are important for overall health.
Alergens
This recipe contains nuts, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the nuts from the recipe or substitute with a different topping.
Summary
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine is a delicious and nutritious dessert option that is low in fat and calories. With the natural sweetness of pineapple and the rich flavors of port wine, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Summary
Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine is a delicious and elegant dessert that is perfect for entertaining or special occasions. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Enjoy the natural goodness of pineapple and the rich flavors of port wine in this simple yet sophisticated dessert.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Portugal. My neighbor, Dona Maria, was known for her delicious cooking and generous heart. One day, she invited me over to her house to help her prepare a special dessert for a family gathering.
As I walked into Dona Maria's kitchen, the sweet aroma of fresh pineapples filled the air. She greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a ripe pineapple to peel and slice. I watched in awe as she skillfully cut the pineapple into perfect rings, each one glistening with golden juices.
"Today, we are going to make Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine," Dona Maria said, her voice filled with excitement. "It is a traditional Portuguese dessert that is perfect for special occasions."
I eagerly listened as she explained the recipe to me. It was simple yet elegant, requiring only a few ingredients – fresh pineapple, sugar, and of course, a generous splash of port wine. Dona Maria told me that the key to making this dessert delicious was to use the ripest, juiciest pineapples and to let them marinate in the port wine for at least a few hours.
Together, we prepared the pineapple rings, placing them in a shallow dish and sprinkling them with sugar. Dona Maria poured the port wine over the pineapple, the rich, dark liquid cascading over the sweet fruit. As the pineapple soaked up the flavors of the wine, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the final result.
After letting the pineapple marinate for a few hours, Dona Maria presented the dish to her family. The pineapple glistened with a deep, ruby red color, the aroma of the port wine mingling with the sweet fragrance of the fruit. As we each took a bite, the flavors exploded in our mouths – the tangy sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complemented by the rich, velvety notes of the port wine.
From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged Dona Maria to teach me how to make Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine, and she graciously agreed. Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own little twists and variations to make it truly my own.
As I grew older and started a family of my own, Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine became a staple dessert in our household. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for my loved ones. Each time I made it, the memories of that first day in Dona Maria's kitchen came flooding back to me – the laughter, the warmth, and the joy of creating something delicious with someone you care about.
Now, as I pass on this recipe to my grandchildren, I hope that they will cherish it as much as I have. For me, Fresh Pineapple in Port Wine is more than just a dessert – it is a reminder of the bonds that food can create, the memories that it can evoke, and the love that it can express. And as long as I have this recipe in my heart, I know that a piece of Dona Maria will always be with me, guiding me through the kitchen and filling my home with the sweet aroma of fresh pineapples and port wine.
Categories
| Cashew Recipes | Mozambican Desserts | Mozambican Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Port Recipes |