There’s a special feeling that washes over me when I think about the bright, tropical sweetness of a fresh pineapple. It’s like a burst of sunshine on your taste buds, and today, I’m excited to share a beloved Colombian Pineapple Sauce that embodies that joy. I stumbled upon this recipe while daydreaming about the vibrant flavors of my summer travels, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen.
This sauce is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile! Whether over pancakes for a cozy brunch, drizzled over grilled meats for a delightful twist, or spooned over vanilla ice cream as a refreshing dessert, it brings a delightful zing to every dish. With just a handful of simple ingredients—most of which you probably have on hand—you can whip up this syrup in just 20 minutes. Say goodbye to boring sauces and hello to the luscious, sweet-spiced taste of Colombia! Let’s dive into this easy and rewarding recipe that will brighten any meal.
Why is Colombian Pineapple Sauce a must-try?
Bursting with flavor: This sauce captures the essence of summer with its tropical sweetness and vibrant spices.
Quick and easy: Whip it up in just 20 minutes using basic ingredients you likely have on hand.
Versatile use: Perfect as a topping for pancakes, grilled meats, or even desserts like vanilla ice cream.
Unique twist: Elevate your meals beyond the ordinary with this delightful Colombian classic.
For an extra savory experience, check out how it complements other dishes in our sauce collection!
Colombian Pineapple Sauce Ingredients
Get ready to create a flavor explosion!
For the Sauce
- Whole fresh pineapple – use ripe, firm pineapple for the sweetest flavor.
- Water – needed to help break down the pineapple into a delightful syrup.
- Stick cinnamon – adds a warm, aromatic spice that enhances the sauce’s profile.
- White granulated sugar – sweetens the sauce; you can adjust to taste!
- White vinegar – adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cornstarch – helps thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious consistency.
- Salt – just a pinch to enhance all the flavors in this Colombian Pineapple Sauce.
How to Make Colombian Pineapple Sauce
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Prepare the pineapple: Peel and core the whole pineapple, then cut it into bite-sized chunks. This step ensures you capture all that juicy sweetness in your sauce!
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Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, add the pineapple chunks, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Simmer the mixture: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes. This will soften the pineapple and infuse the cinnamon flavor beautifully!
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Strain the mixture: After simmering, strain the mixture into a bowl, separating the liquid from the solids. You’ll want to keep that luscious juice for your sauce!
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Mix in the flavors: Pour the strained liquid back into the saucepan. Add sugar, white vinegar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir everything together until combined, letting those flavors explode!
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Cook to thicken: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. You want a lovely syrupy texture!
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Cool and store: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a jar. Your Colombian Pineapple Sauce is now ready to elevate your meals!
Optional: Drizzle over pancakes for a delicious breakfast treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Colombian Pineapple Sauce
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Choose Ripe Pineapple: The sweeter the pineapple, the more flavorful your sauce will be. Look for bright skin and a sweet aroma.
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Mind the Consistency: For a thicker sauce, ensure you cook it long enough after adding cornstarch. Keep it on medium heat and stir often!
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Balance the Flavors: Adjust sugar and vinegar according to your taste preferences. This Colombian Pineapple Sauce should have a delightful sweet-tangy balance.
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Avoid Oversimmering: Simmer just 20 minutes to prevent the pineapple from becoming too mushy; you want to maintain some texture in your sauce.
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Storage Tips: Store your sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week; just give it a good stir before using!
Colombian Pineapple Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative with this sauce and tailor it to your taste preferences!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for a fiery twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh mint or basil after cooking to introduce a refreshing herbal element that elevates your dish.
- Coconut Delight: Substitute half the water with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes.
- Brown Sugar: Swap white granulated sugar for brown sugar to add a deep, caramel flavor that enriches the syrup’s base.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate the zest of lime or orange while simmering for a bright, zesty contrast to the pineapple’s sweetness.
- Vanilla Essence: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall sweetness.
- Ginger Snap: Mix in freshly grated ginger during cooking for a warm, spicy undertone that complements the pineapple nicely.
- Berry Bliss: Blend in a handful of fresh or frozen berries (like strawberries or blueberries) for a fruity twist that adds vibrant color and flavor!
Each variation brings its own charm, allowing you to enjoy this Colombian delight in unique ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Colombian Pineapple Sauce preparations make your meal planning a breeze! You can prepare the pineapple chunks and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. When ready to make the sauce, simply combine the prepped pineapple with water and cinnamon, then follow the cooking steps as outlined. To maintain the freshness and avoid browning, make sure the pineapple is well-covered and stored promptly after cutting. Once the sauce is cooked, it can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Just reheat gently on the stove while stirring before serving, and you’ll enjoy that bright, tropical flavor just as if it were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Colombian Pineapple Sauce
Fridge: Store your Colombian Pineapple Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Always give it a good stir before using to mix the flavors.
Freezer: You can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. It’s perfect for drizzling over pancakes or desserts!
What to Serve with Colombian Pineapple Sauce?
Imagine a burst of tropical sweetness that can elevate any meal, creating a delightful harmony of flavors!
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Fluffy Pancakes: Topped with this syrup, pancakes transform into a tropical getaway for your taste buds, perfect for a cozy brunch.
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Grilled Chicken: This sauce adds a sweet-spicy glaze to grilled chicken, enhancing its savory notes and creating a memorable feast.
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Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream drizzled with Colombian Pineapple Sauce makes for a refreshing and indulgent dessert experience.
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Savory Tacos: Use the sauce as a unique topping on fish or pork tacos for that unexpected twist that brightens every bite.
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Coconut Rice: The sweetness of pineapple complements coconut rice beautifully, adding depth and a tropical flair to your meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: Drizzle over a salad with fresh greens, nuts, and feta for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
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Sparkling Water: Pair with a fizzy drink or cocktail for a refreshing palate-cleansing experience that will elevate your dining adventure.
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Cheese Platter: Explore new textures by adding the sauce alongside creamy cheeses, offering a sweet contrast to their rich flavors.
Colombian Pineapple Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of pineapple should I use for Colombian Pineapple Sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a ripe pineapple that’s firm and smells sweet at the base. Look for one that’s golden-yellow and has a bit of give when gently squeezed—this indicates it’s juicy and perfectly sweet!
How long can I store Colombian Pineapple Sauce in the fridge?
You can keep your delicious Colombian Pineapple Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to mix those fantastic flavors together!
Can I freeze Colombian Pineapple Sauce? How?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Pour the sauce into a freezer-safe container or pour it into ice cube trays for convenient portioning. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, just place it in the fridge overnight or gently heat it on low in a saucepan until warmed through—easy as pie!
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your Colombian Pineapple Sauce has thickened more than you’d like, no worries! Just add a splash of water, stir it in, and heat it over low until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity with a bit more sugar or vinegar if needed; it’s all about balance!
Is Colombian Pineapple Sauce safe for pets or people with allergies?
Generally, this sauce is safe for most people; however, always check ingredients for potential allergies, especially for vinegar or sugar sensitivities. As for pets, it’s best to keep it away from them due to the sugar content. If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian for guidance on what’s safe for your furry friends.
Delicious Colombian Pineapple Sauce to Elevate Your Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the pineapple: Peel and core the whole pineapple, then cut it into bite-sized chunks.
- Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, add the pineapple chunks, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer the mixture: Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the mixture: After simmering, strain into a bowl, separating the liquid from the solids.
- Mix in the flavors: Pour the strained liquid back into the saucepan. Add sugar, white vinegar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir until combined.
- Cook to thicken: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before transferring to a jar.