This grilled pineapple juice is a uniquely sweet and refreshing drink to have during hot days or to serve at backyard barbecues and other summer gatherings. You can add another layer of flavor to piña coladas or your favorite pineapple juice cocktails or drink it as is.
Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the pineapple rings on the grill. Grill until you see grill marks on both sides and the pineapple is warm and soft, about 10 minutes per side.
Let cool slightly and chop into pieces (discarding the hard core) until you get 2 cups of pineapple.
Place the chopped, grilled pineapple in a blender with the water, lime juice, ginger and sweetener. Blend until smooth. (Optionally, you can strain it through a fine mesh strainer, but I prefer it with the pulp.)
Serve in glasses over ice with a grilled pineapple wedge garnish!
Notes
You can reserve one ½” thick pineapple ring with the skin on, grill it and cut into wedges for a stunning drink garnish!
Leftover juice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 1 year.
A pineapple slicer/corer would be very helpful for this recipe if you have one on hand. Instructions to use it are in the post.
Don't add ice until serving or you will water down the drink. Alternatively, you can chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours and serve it with no ice.