Description
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Skewers
Ingredients:
1 fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
12 slices bacon, cut in half
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat grill to medium heat.Wrap each pineapple chunk with half a slice of bacon and secure with a skewer.In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper.Brush the mixture over the skewers.Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and caramelized.Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.Serve warm and enjoy.
#BaconWrappedPineapple #GrilledSkewers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect skewers every time. First, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to a consistent medium heat (around 375°F). While it heats, prepare the glaze by thoroughly whisking together the honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pat your pineapple chunks dry with a paper towel; this helps the bacon adhere better. Wrap each pineapple chunk snugly with a half-slice of bacon. Thread 3-4 wrapped chunks onto each soaked skewer, leaving a small space between them for even cooking. Generously brush the honey-soy glaze over all sides of the assembled skewers. Place skewers on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 5-6 minutes, then turn carefully with tongs. Continue grilling for another 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is fully crispy and caramelized. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a stunning appetizer on a large platter with a side of extra glaze or a spicy mayo for dipping. For a main course, pair them with coconut rice, a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or grilled vegetables. They also make a fantastic addition to any summer BBQ spread alongside burgers and grilled corn.
How-to Summary
Soak skewers. Make glaze. Wrap pineapple in bacon and thread onto skewers. Brush with glaze. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning until bacon is crispy. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in the oven? Yes. Bake at 400°F on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until bacon is crisp.
Can I prepare them ahead of time? You can assemble the skewers and make the glaze up to 4 hours in advance. Store separately in the fridge, then glaze and cook just before serving.
What type of bacon works best? Use regular-cut bacon. Thick-cut won’t crisp up as quickly, and thin-cut may overcook before the pineapple caramelizes.
Can I use canned pineapple? Fresh is highly recommended for texture and flavor. If using canned chunks, ensure they are well-drained and patted very dry.
How do I prevent flare-ups from bacon grease? Ensure your grill grates are clean and keep the heat at a steady medium. Have a spray bottle of water handy to quickly tame any flames.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not soaking the skewers, causing them to burn on the grill.
- Using wet pineapple, which prevents the bacon from sticking properly.
- Overcrowding the skewers, which leads to steaming instead of grilling.
- Brushing with glaze only at the start. For deeper flavor, brush once more halfway through grilling.
- Moving the skewers too soon on the grill; let them sear for a few minutes to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Skewers are the ultimate sweet, salty, and smoky bite that is guaranteed to impress. With this comprehensive guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and master the technique for a flawless result. Whether for a weeknight treat or a party centerpiece, this simple recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Fire up the grill and get ready for a crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly balances contrasting flavors and textures.