Description
Scalloped Pineapple is a unique and vibrant dish that combines the juicy sweetness of fresh pineapple with creamy plant-based cheese layers. This recipe offers a tropical twist on classic scalloped dishes, delivering a rich, velvety texture balanced with subtle umami and a bright tangy finish. Perfect as a side, dessert, or light main, it is an easy-to-make and versatile dish that suits various dietary preferences and occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks or thin slices
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (creamy, melts well)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (natural)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Optional Fresh Herbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh mint
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Finely chopped toasted macadamia nuts or almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Peel and core a fresh pineapple, then slice it into thin, even rings or bite-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly in the dish.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, combine plant-based milk, plant-based cheese, natural gelling agent, apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), brown sugar (natural), finely chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until smooth and thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Assemble the Layers: Grease a baking dish lightly. Alternate layers of pineapple and creamy sauce, spreading the sauce evenly to create the signature scalloped effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled dish for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it Rest: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes to firm up slightly, enhancing flavors and texture before serving.
Notes
- Choose pineapples with a sweet aroma and firm texture for optimal flavor and juiciness.
- Slice pineapple evenly so all pieces cook uniformly.
- Rest the dish before serving to prevent the sauce from being too runny.
- Maintain balance between pineapple and sauce layers for ideal texture and flavor in each bite.
- Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens the dish and adds fresh complexity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Scalloped Pineapple, plant-based cheese, tropical dish, dairy-free, vegan, creamy pineapple bake
