Chili Pineapple Sauce Recipe: A Sweet and Spicy Delight

Chili Pineapple Sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and seafood to tacos and roasted vegetables. The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy chili creates a balanced, flavorful sauce that’s sure to add a zesty kick to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple (or 2 cups canned pineapple chunks, drained)
• 1-2 red chili peppers (adjust for heat level)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for more heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water (adjust for consistency)

Method:

1. Prepare the Pineapple: If you’re using a fresh pineapple, start by peeling, coring, and cutting it into chunks. If using canned pineapple, drain the excess liquid and set the chunks aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Add the Pineapple and Chili: Toss in the pineapple chunks and chili peppers (sliced). Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the pineapple to soften and the chili to release its heat.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar (or lime juice), and honey or maple syrup if using. Add chili flakes if you want to increase the spiciness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer: Add the 1/4 cup of water to the mixture and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and adjust the water if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
6. Blend: Once the sauce has thickened and the ingredients have softened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, let the sauce cool slightly and transfer it to a regular blender. Blend until smooth.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Consistency: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If it’s too thick, add a little more water or lime juice. If it’s too spicy, you can add a bit more honey or pineapple to balance it out.
8. Serve or Store: Serve the Chili Pineapple Sauce warm or at room temperature as a dipping sauce, marinade, or drizzle for your favorite dishes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions:

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Use the sauce as a glaze or dipping sauce for grilled meats and seafood.
• Tacos: Drizzle over fish or pork tacos for a burst of sweet and spicy flavor.
• Rice Bowls: Mix into rice bowls with roasted vegetables, tofu, or tempeh.
• Appetizers: Serve as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or veggie sticks.

Enjoy the bold combination of flavors in this easy-to-make Chili Pineapple Sauce!