BBQ Grilled Pineapple Rings with Coconut Cream & Toasted Coconut
BBQ Grilled Pineapple Rings with Coconut Cream & Toasted Coconut
This dessert (or even a surprisingly delicious side!) is relatively simple to make but delivers a burst of flavour and texture. The grilling process intensifies the pineapple's sweetness and adds a wonderful smoky char, while the coconut cream provides a cool, velvety contrast, and the toasted coconut adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings about 1/2 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, but enhances caramelisation)
- 1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice (optional, for a touch of brightness)
For the Coconut Cream:
- 1 can (13.5 oz / 400ml) full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight (this helps the cream solidify)1
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Toasted Coconut:
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
- If using, lightly sprinkle both sides of the pineapple rings with brown sugar and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. This will help with caramelisation and add a touch of acidity.
2. Prepare the Coconut Cream:
- Carefully scoop out the thick, solid cream from the top of the refrigerated coconut milk can, leaving the watery liquid behind (you can reserve this liquid for smoothies or other uses).2
- In a small bowl, whisk the coconut cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside in the refrigerator to stay cool.
3. Toast the Coconut:
- Heat a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the shredded coconut and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown and fragrant. This will happen quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the toasted coconut from the skillet and transfer it to a plate to cool.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Place the pineapple rings on the hot grill grates.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and become slightly softened and caramelised. You're looking for a beautiful golden-brown colour and some char.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Place the grilled pineapple rings on plates.
- Dollop generously with the chilled coconut cream.
- Sprinkle with the toasted coconut.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful contrast of warm, smoky pineapple and cool, creamy coconut!
Tips for Success:
- Choose a ripe pineapple: A ripe pineapple will be sweeter and more flavourful. Look for one that is slightly fragrant and gives a little when gently squeezed.
- Don't overcook the pineapple: You want it to be tender and have grill marks, but not mushy.
- Chill the coconut milk thoroughly: This is crucial for getting a thick and creamy coconut topping. Don't skip the overnight chilling!
- Watch the coconut closely while toasting: It can burn very quickly, so constant stirring is key.
- Experiment with flavours: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of rum to the brown sugar mixture for an extra layer of flavour.
- Serving variations: This is also delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey.
A Taste of Paradise:
The taste of this grilled pineapple is simply divine. The heat of the grill caramelises the natural sugars in the pineapple, creating a wonderful sweetness with a hint of smoky depth. The edges get slightly charred, adding a delightful texture contrast to the juicy interior. The cool, velvety coconut cream provides a rich and tropical counterpoint, while the toasted coconut adds a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma that ties all the flavours together beautifully. It's a refreshing and satisfying treat that tastes like a vacation in every bite!