Pickled Pineapple
Sweet and tangy pickled pineapple with warm spices, perfect as a garnish or unique snack, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful preserved fruits.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain syrup from pineapple.
- Measure 2/3 cup of syrup and pour into a saucepan.
- Add cider vinegar, sugar, salt, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick to the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup mixture immediately over the pineapple chunks.
- Ladle the pineapple and syrup into a gift jar.
- Arrange the cinnamon stick and maraschino cherry in the jar.
- Fill the jar to overflowing with the liquid.
- Cover and cool at room temperature, then refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or a few slices of fresh ginger to the syrup. If you're short on cider vinegar, white vinegar can work as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different. Ensure the pineapple chunks are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the jar. This pickled pineapple also makes a delightful topping for skinless boneless chicken tenders.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pickled pineapple as a tangy side dish or a unique topping for grilled meats and sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with vegan recipes, adding a sweet and sour element. You can also use it as a garnish for cocktails, enhancing drinks like a Norwegian Gluige. For a refreshing dessert, serve it over vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickled pineapple in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider canning it using a proper method. When ready to use, simply scoop out the desired amount, and it can be served straight from the jar — no reheating necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pickled Pineapple contains roughly 216 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1842mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for this recipe. Just ensure it is ripe and cut into chunks. Fresh pineapple will provide a crisper texture and a brighter flavor compared to canned pineapple. Make sure to drain any excess juice before pickling.
How long does the pickled pineapple last?
When stored properly in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, pickled pineapple can last for up to two weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider canning it. Once opened, consume it within a week for the best flavor and texture.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
The leftover syrup can be used in various ways! It makes a great addition to cocktails, drizzled over pancakes or waffles, or even as a glaze for doughnuts. You can also use it to sweeten iced tea or lemonade for a tropical twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).