It's an easy process, and the result is a sweet, tropical syrup that you can use in cocktails, desserts, pancakes, or as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients:
- Fresh pineapple – 1 medium-sized pineapple (about 2 cups chopped)
- Sugar – 1 cup (granulated or brown sugar)
- Water – 1 cup
- Optional Add-ins:
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp) for a richer flavor
- Lime juice (1 tbsp) for a tangy kick
- Spices like cinnamon, ginger, or star anise for added warmth
Tools Needed:
- A sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan
- Strainer or cheesecloth
- Jar or bottle for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
- Peel the pineapple. Use a sharp knife to cut off the crown and base, then slice down the sides to remove the skin. Make sure to remove any “eyes” left on the surface.
- Chop the pineapple into small chunks. Smaller pieces extract more flavor and are easier to cook.
Step 2: Cook the Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks, sugar, and water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15–20 minutes. This allows the pineapple flavor to infuse into the syrup.
- If using spices, add them during this step.
- For extra tanginess, stir in lime juice toward the end of cooking.
Step 3: Strain the Syrup
- Once the mixture has cooled slightly, strain it through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl. Press down on the pineapple chunks with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can skip straining and keep the pineapple bits.
Step 4: Bottle the Syrup
- Transfer the strained syrup into a sterilized jar or bottle. If you’re adding vanilla extract, stir it in at this point.
- Let the syrup cool completely before sealing the container.
Storage:
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer shelf life, freeze the syrup in small portions or use sterilized bottles for proper sealing.
Tips & Variations:
- Use the leftover pineapple pulp: Blend it into smoothies, bake it into muffins, or enjoy it as a topping for yogurt.
- Brown sugar twist: Use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Cocktail-ready: Pair with rum, tequila, or sparkling water for refreshing tropical drinks.