How To Make Preserved Pineapple Recipe
Preserved Pineapple Recipe is a fantastic way to store pineapples when they’re in their peak harvesting season, ensuring you can enjoy their sweet and tangy flavor throughout the year. This method is ideal when fresh pineapples are not available, and it offers versatility in how you can use the preserved fruit. Whether you’re adding them to tangy rasams, rich continental fruitcakes, or delightful upside-down cakes, preserved pineapples are a true pantry staple. Plus, this recipe allows you to preserve pineapples in bulk, making it easy to store them in large airtight jars for long-term use. They also make charming homemade edible gifts, perfect for your home parties when presented in cute, small glass jars. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have delicious preserved pineapples ready for any recipe, any time!
Cuisine: Continental
Course: N/A
Diet: Vegetarian
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Yields: Approximately 2 cups of preserved pineapple
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pineapple | 1 Pineapple, chopped or sliced (about 2 cups) |
| Water | 1 ½ cups |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Orange liquor | 2 tablespoons (optional, or use any alcohol of choice) |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pineapple and Syrup
Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop or slice the pineapple into small chunks, measuring out approximately 2 cups. In a saucepan, add the 1 ½ cups of water and ½ cup sugar, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely as the water heats. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil. -
Add the Pineapple
Once the water-sugar mixture is boiling, add the pineapple chunks into the saucepan. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the pineapple is fully submerged. Allow the mixture to return to a boil.Alternative Method: If you prefer a quicker method, place all the ingredients (water, sugar, and pineapple) into a pressure cooker and cook for one whistle.
-
Cool and Prepare the Storage Jar
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 15 minutes. While waiting, prepare a clean glass jar by thoroughly wiping it with a clean kitchen cloth or towel to ensure it’s sterile and ready for storing the pineapple. -
Add Liquor (Optional)
If you choose to use orange liquor or any other type of alcohol, add it at this stage. Pour 2 tablespoons of the chosen liquor into the jar with the pineapple and syrup, and mix gently. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the preserved pineapple but can be skipped if you prefer an alcohol-free version. -
Bottle and Store
Using a ladle, carefully transfer the pineapple slices with the syrup into the prepared jar, ensuring there is enough syrup to cover the fruit. Once filled, cover the jar with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature until it cools completely. -
Refrigerate
After the jar has cooled to room temperature, close the lid tightly and refrigerate. Your preserved pineapples are now ready to use! They can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.Tip: If you prefer to use the pineapple in savory dishes, you can rinse off the syrup under cold running water to reduce the excess sugar content. This way, you’ll still enjoy the natural sweetness of the fruit without overwhelming your savory recipes.
Uses for Preserved Pineapple:
- Desserts: Perfect for incorporating into cakes, upside-down cakes, tarts, and fruit salads.
- Savory Dishes: Add a unique twist to curries, salsas, or even grilled meats by rinsing the sugar syrup off before use.
- Edible Gifts: Present preserved pineapple in charming glass jars as homemade gifts for friends and family during festive seasons or home parties.
By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy the vibrant and delicious taste of pineapple year-round, making it a great addition to your recipe collection.
