Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a sweet, spicy, and surprisingly addictive snack? Then prepare yourself for the explosion of flavor that is salted chili dried pineapple! This simple recipe transforms ordinary pineapple into a chewy, intensely flavorful treat that's perfect for snacking, adding to charcuterie boards, or even incorporating into your favorite cocktails. The combination of the pineapple's natural sweetness, the fiery kick of chili, and the satisfying crunch of salt creates a complex and unforgettable taste experience.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece of dried pineapple, its sweetness amplified by the drying process, then feeling the delightful heat of the chili followed by a balancing salty finish. This isn't your average dried fruit; it's a gourmet experience you can easily create at home. Ready to learn how to make this irresistible snack? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Pot
- Oven
- Tray
- Food wrap
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Pineapple: 3 fruits
- Sugar: 200 grams
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Chili (fresh or dried)
- MSG: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Pineapple and Marinade
- Thoroughly wash the pineapple. Cut into 0.5cm thick slices.
- Mix sugar, salt, and MSG in a bowl.
- Add chili (freshly ground or dried) to the sugar-salt-MSG mixture.
- Marinate pineapple slices in the chili-sugar-salt-MSG mixture for 2-3 hours (or overnight).
- Remove the core of the pineapple for easier eating.
Step 2. Simmer and Infuse Flavors
- Simmer the marinated pineapple for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3. Dehydrate for Optimal Texture
- Preheat oven to 100°C. Arrange pineapple on a tray and dry for 30 minutes. Reduce temperature to 80°C and dry for another hour, then to 60°C for a final hour. Adjust drying time based on desired texture (chewier with more moisture requires less time, drier and tougher requires longer).
Read more: Crunchy Pickled Firecracker Eggplant: A Vietnamese Recipe
Tips
- Choose pineapple that is slightly ripe, but not overripe, for best flavor.
- If drying in the sun, cover the pineapple with a cloth to prevent dust and dirt.
- Flip the pineapple slices halfway through the drying process for even drying.
- Don't over-dry the pineapple; it will lose its sweetness and honey-like flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the drying time. Fresh pineapple will take considerably longer to dry thoroughly. Ensure it's fully dried to prevent mold.
2. How long will the salted chili dried pineapple last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, your salted chili dried pineapple should last for 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
So there you have it – your very own batch of irresistible salted chili dried pineapple! This simple recipe yields a snack that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy this addictive treat on its own, as a topping, or share it with friends – they'll thank you for it!