CARAMELIZED ASIAN TERIYAKI GRILLED PINEAPPLE

Caramelized Asian Teriyaki Grilled Pineapple

Grilled fresh pineapple...glazed over and over, until it's perfectly sweet and tender, and covered with the most delicious sweet and sticky teriyaki glaze ever! 

​I've lost track of how many times we've made grilled caramelized pineapple this summer - with a variety of glazes and different tastes.  This is one of our favorites - perfect with any kind of Teriyaki or Sweet Asian chicken or salmon, perfect in salads, or simply perfect all by itself! 

For years we've thought that one of our little ones was allergic to pineapple.  Come to find out, she may not be!  If you get a tingling sensation in your mouth or on your tongue when you eat fresh pineapple, you are not alone! ​

Fresh Pineapple on the grill...basted with sweet Asian Teriyaki Grilling Glaze

Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, a mixture of enzymes that digest proteins. Despite bromelain being an approved anti-inflammatory treatment and having other health benefits, when it comes into contact with the sensitive skin in and around your mouth, it's actually breaking down proteins, and if you eat a lot or are sensitive to bromelain, it can cause your mouth and tongue to become sore and inflamed.  In addition to pineapple - lemons and limes (and other citruses) do the same thing, which is why they are often times used as marinades and meat tenderizers.  The good news is that your tongue rebuilds those proteins and amino acids, so it won't be sore for long.

Wondering why this phenomena doesn't happen when you cook the fruit? Heating, roasting, grill or baking all cause a chemical reaction that eliminates the enzymes and we're left with sweeter, more sugary fruit. 

Caramelized Grilled Pineapple with Teriyaki Glaze

Saucy and sweet...this is the summertime treat that you've been waiting for!  Hope you give it a try at your next barbeque and let me know how much you love it.

Happy grilling, and don't forget to share!
​Mama V

Caramelized Asian Teriyaki Grilled Pineapple