Swedish Grilled Pineapple with Rich Cardamom Syrup

There is something truly magical about the transformation fruit undergoes when it meets the searing heat of a grill. In Sweden, where the appreciation for cardamom runs deep, pairing this aromatic spice with the natural sweetness of roasted fruit is a beloved tradition. This recipe for Swedish Grilled Pineapple with Cardamom Syrup elevates a simple tropical fruit into a sophisticated dessert that is bursting with flavor. The high heat of the Arteflame grill rapidly caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust and a smoky depth that an oven simply cannot replicate.

The real star of this dish, however, is the syrup. Infused with crushed cardamom seeds, the syrup offers a floral, slightly spicy counterpoint to the intense sweetness of the grilled fruit. This dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also for the nose, as the scent of warming spices and sizzling fruit fills the air. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy autumn gathering, this dish provides a light yet indulgent finish to your meal, perfectly utilizing the versatility of your outdoor cooktop.

Ingredients

• 1 large, ripe pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into wedges or rings)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cardamom seeds (lightly crushed in a mortar)
• Vanilla ice cream (premium quality for serving)
• Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish)
• Optional: A splash of rum or cognac for the syrup

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cardamom Syrup

1. Begin by creating the flavor base. In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, and the crushed cardamom seeds.
2. Place the saucepan on a side burner or the cooler edge of your Arteflame cooktop. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the syrup to thicken slightly and the cardamom flavor to fully infuse. Remove from heat and let it cool. Strain the seeds out before serving if you prefer a smooth texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple and Grill

1. While the syrup is steeping, fire up your Arteflame grill. Aim for a medium-high heat on the flat carbon steel cooktop. You want the surface hot enough to sear the fruit quickly without turning it to mush.
2. Brush a very light layer of oil or butter on the cooktop surface where you plan to place the pineapple to prevent sticking, though the juices usually suffice.
3. Place the pineapple wedges or rings directly onto the hot steel.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

1. Grill the pineapple for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Do not move them around constantly; let them sit to develop enticing grill marks and a caramelized crust.
2. Watch for the fruit to turn a golden-amber hue and become slightly tender. The heat intensifies the sweetness, so keep an eye out to ensure the sugars don't burn.
3. Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the heat and plate immediately.

Step 4: Plating and Serving

1. Arrange the hot grilled pineapple slices on individual plates or a serving platter.
2. Generously drizzle the cardamom syrup over the warm fruit, ensuring it soaks into the grill marks.
3. Add a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream on the side or top. The contrast between hot fruit and cold cream is essential.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.

Tips

Grilling fruit requires a bit of finesse to ensure you achieve that perfect caramelization without burning the delicate sugars. When using your Arteflame, utilize the heat zones effectively. Start the pineapple closer to the center to get a hard sear and distinct grill marks, then move the pieces to the outer, cooler ring of the cooktop to soften through without charring. This technique ensures the inside is juicy and warm while the outside remains textured. Always choose a pineapple that is ripe but firm; overripe fruit may fall apart on the grill, while under-ripe fruit will lack the necessary sugar content to caramelize properly.

Regarding the syrup, don't rush the infusion process. Crushing the cardamom pods is vital to release the oils inside the seeds. If you have time, make the syrup a day in advance. Resting the syrup overnight allows the cardamom flavor to deepen significantly, resulting in a more complex and aromatic topping. If the syrup becomes too thick after cooling, simply warm it up slightly on the edge of the grill before drizzling it over the finished dish.

Variations

While the classic Swedish combination of pineapple and cardamom is sublime, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit different palates or seasonal ingredients. You can experiment with the spices in the syrup to create an entirely new flavor profile. For a warmer, more wintery feel, try substituting the cardamom with star anise, cinnamon sticks, or even a pinch of saffron for a luxurious golden hue. These spices pair particularly well if you decide to swap the pineapple for stone fruits like peaches or plums.

• Rum-Infused: Add a shot of dark rum or bourbon to the syrup after removing it from the heat for a boozy kick.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a slice of fresh jalapeño to the syrup to contrast the sweetness.
• Citrus Zest: Grate fresh lime or orange zest into the syrup for a brighter, more acidic finish.
• Nutty Crunch: Top the dessert with toasted pistachios or almonds for added texture.
• Coconut Twist: Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor profile.

Best pairings

This dessert is all about temperature and texture contrast, making the choice of accompaniment crucial. The most classic pairing is a high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The creaminess cuts through the acidity of the pineapple, and as it melts, it mixes with the cardamom syrup to create a delicious sauce. However, if you are looking for something lighter or more sophisticated, consider serving the pineapple with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt sweetened with a little honey. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the tropical fruit beautifully.

For beverage pairings, this dessert shines alongside specific drinks. A glass of cold dessert wine, such as a Sauternes or a late-harvest Riesling, mirrors the sweetness of the pineapple while balancing the spice. Alternatively, a strong cup of dark roast coffee or an espresso is an excellent choice. The bitterness of the coffee acts as a palate cleanser against the sweet syrup, while the roasted notes harmonize with the smoky flavor imparted by the Arteflame grill.

Conclusion

Swedish Grilled Pineapple with Cardamom Syrup is a testament to the versatility of outdoor cooking on the Arteflame. It breaks the mold of traditional barbecue fare, proving that the grill is just as capable of producing delicate, high-end desserts as it is savory steaks. The combination of smoky, caramelized fruit and the floral aromatic punch of cardamom creates a sensory experience that lingers long after the last bite. It is a simple recipe with a complex payoff, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Next time you fire up the grill, don't let the heat go to waste after the main course is done. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform a humble pineapple into a show-stopping finale. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with your own spicy variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your outdoor cooking repertoire. Enjoy the sweet, smoky taste of success.