Smoked Pineapple Recipes: Sweet, Smoky Delights for Your Grill

Discovering the art of smoking pineapple is an adventure in flavor that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. With its sweet, juicy profile, pineapple becomes even more enticing when kissed by the smoke, resulting in a delightful fusion of tropical sweetness and savory smoke. This blog post will guide you through a variety of smoked pineapple recipes, offer insights on different smoking techniques, and provide tips to elevate your grilling game with this unique fruit.

Understanding Pineapple Smoking Basics

Before we delve into specific recipes, it's vital to understand the fundamentals of smoking pineapple. Here are the key points:

• Pineapple Selection: Opt for a pineapple that is ripe but not overly soft. A slight give when squeezed and vibrant green leaves indicate freshness.
• Preparation: Pineapple doesn't require soaking like meats, but you can lightly brush it with oil to prevent sticking on the grill.
• Wood Selection: Woods like cherry, apple, or alder provide a subtle sweetness that complements the pineapple's natural sugars.
• Temperature and Time: Low and slow smoking at temperatures between 200-225°F (93-107°C) for about 30 minutes to an hour usually suffices.

🌿 Note: The type of wood and the duration of smoking can significantly alter the flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite combination.

Smoked Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Smoked pineapple salsa offers a smoky kick to your traditional salsa, perfect for tacos, fish, or as a refreshing dip.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into slices
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use cherry or apple wood for a sweet smoke profile.
2. Place pineapple slices on the smoker rack. Smoke for about 30-45 minutes or until they develop a caramelized, smoky flavor.
3. Remove the pineapple from the smoker, let it cool, then dice into small pieces.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked pineapple with bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
5. Let the flavors meld together for at least 30 minutes before serving.

🍍 Note: For a milder flavor, you can deseed the jalapeño or opt for a different chili variety.

Smoked Pineapple Ribs Glaze

Transform your barbecue ribs with this unique pineapple glaze, providing a sweet and smoky enhancement to the savory meat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup smoked pineapple juice (reserve from the pineapple or buy smoked juice)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp liquid smoke (optional for additional smoke)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low, and continue to cook until the glaze thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Use this glaze in the last hour of smoking ribs or brush onto ribs as they come off the grill.

💡 Note: Adjust the amount of glaze based on your taste preference; for a sweeter glaze, increase honey or brown sugar.

Smoked Pineapple and Chicken Skewers

Combine the sweetness of pineapple with the savory essence of grilled chicken for a delightful BBQ treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 red onion, cut into squares
• BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker or grill for indirect smoking at 225°F (107°C).
2. Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 2 hours in the fridge.
3. On skewers, alternately thread chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion.
4. Smoke the skewers for about 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Brush with additional BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

🌱 Note: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Smoked Pineapple Cheesecake

Elevate your cheesecake with a smoky pineapple twist, creating an unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup smoked pineapple puree (blend smoked pineapple with a bit of water)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C) for baking.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the base of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then cool.
3. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, and smoked pineapple puree, mixing until well combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Place the springform pan into a water bath to prevent cracks.
5. Smoke bake the cheesecake for about 1.5 hours or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

📘 Note: The cheesecake can be smoked for a more intense flavor profile, but monitor the temperature to avoid overcooking.

Smoked Pineapple Cocktails

Smoked pineapple can also infuse cocktails with a unique twist, making your drinks stand out.

Smoked Pineapple Margarita:

• 1.5 oz Tequila
• 1 oz smoked pineapple juice
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz Triple Sec
• Smoked salt for rimming the glass

Instructions:

1. Shake all ingredients with ice, then strain into a glass rimmed with smoked salt.
2. Garnish with a piece of smoked pineapple or a lime wedge.

🍸 Note: Experiment with different smoked fruits or herbs for an array of unique cocktail experiences.

To wrap up, smoking pineapple brings an unparalleled depth of flavor to your culinary creations, from savory to sweet dishes. The key to success lies in understanding the balance between smoke and sweetness, allowing the pineapple's natural sugars to harmonize with the smoky nuances imparted by the wood smoke. Whether you're grilling, baking, or smoking, pineapple can elevate your dishes, turning simple ingredients into memorable meals. The versatility of this fruit, combined with the art of smoking, opens up a world of culinary possibilities, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.