Broiled Grapefruit Recipe

There is nothing quite like beginning the day with something both crisp and a little luxurious, and grapefruit that has been put under the broiler fits the bill perfectly. When I consider this morning dish, the vibrant flavors of sweet brown sugar and warm cinnamon—which is, of course, perfectly fine to use in place of nutmeg if that’s what you have on hand—are what come to mind.

I broil the fruit until it’s caramelized and smelling heavenly. For a variation, try adding a vanilla bean or a few drops of extract and a modest pinch of sea salt.

Don’t worry; you aren’t going to overdo it. If you’re anything like me, you’ll serve the grapefruit drizzled in honey and garnished with fresh mint.

Ingredients

Grapefruits: A source of vitamin C; contributes a tangy, refreshing flavor.

Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and caramelizes under the broiler, boosting flavor.

Cinnamon: Offers warmth and spice; it balances the grapefruit’s tartness superbly.

(Optional) Sea Salt: Brings out the sweetness and balances the citrus notes.

Optional: Vanilla Extract.

Provides a dish with a rich, aromatic tone.

(Optional): Offers an invigorating, fragrant decoration.

Honey (Optional): Contributes a delicate natural sweetness and a shiny finish.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large grapefruits
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: a pinch of sea salt
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Optional: Honey for drizzling

Instructions

1. Set your oven’s broiler to high to commence heating as you ready the grapefruits.

2. Ensure that you cut the grapefruits in half horizontally, yielding two halves from each fruit that have flat bases.

3. With a sharp knife, cut the grapefruit into segments by cutting along the membranes. Run the knife between the fruit and the peel to free the segments.

4. Position the grapefruit halves on a baking sheet, with the cut side facing upward.

5. In a small bowl, mix the packed dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon. If desired, a pinch of sea salt and a few drops of vanilla extract can be added to enhance the flavor.

6. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the surface of each grapefruit half, ensuring that the covering is ample and even across each half.

7. Put the baking sheet below the broiler and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the sugar has melted and caramelized, forming a golden crust on top.

8. Take the baking sheet from the oven with care and let the grapefruits cool for a brief period.

9. Drizzle each grapefruit half with honey if you are using it to give the dish added sweetness.

10. If you wish, you can garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve right away to enjoy this delightful, refreshing treat.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven with broiler function
2. Sharp knife
3. Cutting board
4. Baking sheet
5. Small bowl
6. Spoon

FAQ

• Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar? Yes, white sugar can be used, but brown sugar adds a richer flavor and slightly caramelizes better.
• Is it necessary to use cinnamon?The flavor is enhanced by cinnamon, but it isn’t necessary. You can leave it out or swap it for your favorite spice.
• How do I prepare the grapefruit before broiling?Slice each grapefruit in half and use a knife to loosen the segments, making it simpler to consume after broiling.
• Do I need to add sea salt?The sea salt is not an absolute must but does assist in balancing the sweetness and acidity of the grapefruit.
• What can I use as a garnish?Not only do fresh mint leaves add a pop of color, but they also complement the flavor. For added sweetness, you can drizzle on some honey.
• How long should grapefruits be broiled?Broil them for approximately 5-7 minutes until bubbly and caramelized sugar covers each dish.
• What can I serve with broiled grapefruit?This dish can stand on its own as a breakfast item, but you’re allowed to take it one step further and add yogurt or granola.

Substitutions and Variations

Brown sugar can be replaced by using either maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Cinnamon can also be substituted for ground nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice.
Sea salt: Use ordinary table salt or pink Himalayan salt as replacements.
Vanilla extract: Exchange it for almond extract or maple extract.