Grilled Pineapple Wrapped in an Interwoven Lattice of Bacon
Grilled pineapple wrapped in an interwoven lattice of bacon is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The pineapple becomes caramelized and juicy, while the bacon lattice adds a smoky, crispy contrast. Using the Arteflame grill, this dish achieves a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
- 12-15 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Toothpicks
Instructions
Preparing the Grill
- Fire Up the Grill: Start by firing up your Arteflame grill to get it ready for grilling. Allow the flat cooktop to reach a medium-high heat.
Preparing the Pineapple
- Weave the Bacon: Lay out the bacon slices on a flat surface, creating a woven lattice. Overlap the slices to form a tight weave.
- Wrap the Pineapple: Carefully wrap the bacon lattice around the peeled and cored pineapple. Secure the ends with toothpicks.
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Grilling the Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple
- Grill the Pineapple: Place the bacon-wrapped pineapple on the flat cooktop. Grill, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the pineapple is caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
- Apply the Glaze: In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the honey glaze over the bacon-wrapped pineapple. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.
Serving
- Serve Hot: Remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with extra honey glaze on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Tips
- Ensure Even Weaving: Make sure the bacon weave is tight to prevent gaps.
- Monitor the Bacon: Bacon can cook quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Alternative Glaze: For a different flavor, try using maple syrup or balsamic reduction instead of the brown sugar and honey glaze.
Conclusion
Grilled pineapple wrapped in an interwoven lattice of bacon is a visually stunning and delicious dish that will impress your guests. The sweet and smoky flavors complement each other perfectly, making it an ideal appetizer or side dish.
Variations
- Spicy Bacon-Pineapple Lattice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Cheese-Stuffed Pineapple: Add a layer of cream cheese or goat cheese inside the pineapple before wrapping with bacon.
- Tropical Fruit Mix: Mix in other grilled fruits like mango or papaya with the pineapple.
- Herbed Glaze: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic touch.
- Savory Twist: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika and garlic powder to the bacon before weaving.
Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or rice pilaf.
- Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a fruity Rosé.
- Dessert: Finish with a light dessert like coconut sorbet or a tropical fruit salad.