Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce Recipe

I have an interesting story about how I learned the Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce Recipe. It all started during a visit to my friend Enna’s house, where she served perfectly grilled pork chops paired with a sweet and tangy Pineapple Rum Sauce.

My husband was so impressed by the sauce that he couldn’t resist asking Enna about its origins. She revealed that her love for this dish began when she first tasted it at Pollo Tropical. Inspired by its irresistible flavor, she learned how to recreate it from a YouTube tutorial.

Enna was kind enough to guide me through the recipe, and now this incredible sauce is a staple in our home, enhancing both our grilled dishes and desserts.

Why You Will Love This Sauce

1. Tropical Flavor: The pineapple and rum combination brings the taste of a tropical island to your kitchen.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a sauce ready to elevate any dish.
3. Versatile: Use it on grilled meats, vegetables, or even as a dessert topping.
4. Homemade Goodness: Skip the store-bought sauces and enjoy a fresh, preservative-free alternative.

What Is in Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce?

• ¾ cup pineapple juice – Adds a sweet, fruity base.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Gives a rich caramelized sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons butter – Adds creaminess and depth.
• 3 teaspoons cinnamon – Provides a warm, spicy note.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons dark rum – Enhances the flavor with a hint of complexity.

Recipe Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or prefer a variation, here are some substitutions:

• Pineapple Juice: Use orange juice or mango nectar for a different tropical twist.
• Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or white sugar with a little molasses.
• Butter: Replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Dark Rum: Use light rum or omit entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
• Cinnamon: Swap with nutmeg or allspice for a slightly different spice profile.

Tools You’ll Need

Medium-sized pot: For cooking and simmering the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right amounts of each ingredient.
Wooden spoon or whisk: For stirring the sauce as it cooks.
Heat-resistant spatula: To help scrape every bit of the delicious sauce from the pot.

How To Make Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce

Step 1 | Combine the Liquids and Sugar

In a medium pot, pour ¾ cup pineapple juice and add ½ cup brown sugar.

Step 2 | Heat and Dissolve

Place the pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.

Step 3 | Add Butter and Spices

Add 3 tablespoons of butter, 3 teaspoons of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the butter melts and everything is combined.

Step 4 | Simmer and Thicken

Let the sauce cook gently, stirring often, until it thickens and bubbles slightly.

Step 5 | Finish with Rum

Stir in 2 tablespoons of dark rum. Cook for another minute to allow the alcohol to evaporate slightly.

Step 6 | Cool and Serve

Remove the pot from the heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving.

Recipe Perfection Tips

1. Adjusting Thickness: For a thicker sauce, simmer it longer while stirring frequently. If it gets too thick, add a teaspoon of pineapple juice to thin it out.
2. No Alcohol Option: Don’t want to use rum? No problem! Replace it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently on the stove when needed.
   Prevent Burning: Stir continuously while cooking to avoid the sugar sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve it:

1. Grilled Chicken or Pork: Use it as a glaze while grilling or drizzle it over cooked meat for a tangy-sweet finish.
2. Fresh Pineapple: Brush the sauce on pineapple slices and grill them for a caramelized tropical treat.
3. Seafood Twist: Add it as a glaze for grilled shrimp, salmon, or even scallops for a unique, flavorful pairing.
4. Simple Sides: Mix it into steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even a salad dressing for an exotic touch.
5. Sweet Treats: Pour it over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or French toast for a warm and indulgent dessert topping.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures your Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce stays fresh and flavorful. Here’s everything you need to know:

Refrigeration: After the sauce has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or a glass jar with a secure lid. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For best results, avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.

Freezing: If you’d like to store the sauce for a longer time, pour it into an airtight container or portion it into ice cube trays for easy use. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Reheating: Reheat the sauce gently over low heat on the stove, stirring constantly to maintain its texture. If it’s too thick after storage, add a splash of pineapple juice or water to restore its consistency. You can also warm it in the microwave in 15-20 second increments, stirring between each interval.

Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce Recipe FAQs

1. Is this sauce alcoholic?

The recipe contains dark rum, which is typically cooked down, reducing most of the alcohol content. However, if you’re concerned, you can easily substitute the rum with pineapple juice or apple juice.

2. What if I don’t have dark rum?

No worries! You can substitute dark rum with bourbon, coconut rum, or simply omit it altogether. If you skip the rum, add a bit more pineapple juice to maintain the liquid consistency.

3. How do I know when the sauce is perfectly cooked?

The sauce is ready when it starts to thicken and coat the back of a spoon. Look for gentle bubbles and a reduction in volume. It should have a syrupy consistency that’s not too runny or too thick.

4. What makes this sauce special compared to store-bought options?

Homemade sauce gives you complete control over ingredients and flavors. You can adjust the sweetness, spiciness, and richness to your liking. Plus, there’s something special about creating a delicious sauce from scratch that store-bought versions can’t match!

5. Can I use this sauce for meal prep or batch cooking?

Yes! This sauce is excellent for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and use it throughout the week on various dishes. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm slightly before using.

6. What type of brown sugar works best?

Dark brown sugar will give a deeper, more caramelized flavor, while light brown sugar provides a milder sweetness. Both work well in this recipe, so use what you have on hand or prefer.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Pollo Tropical Pineapple Rum Sauce Recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple yet flavorful addition to your meals, perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you.

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