Tipsy Pineapple

This pineapple and its juice are a wonderful treat with many uses. To allow the flavor to fully develop, store the sealed jars in a dark, cool, dry place for at least 2 weeks before opening.

MAKES: about 6 pintjars or three 1-quart jars

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 whole pineapples
• 1 large orange
• 31⁄2 cups water
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon freshly
• squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup coconut rum

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Peel the pineapples and remove the core. Cut the pineapple into ½- to 1-inch chunks. Set aside.
2. Using a soft scrub brush, thoroughly scrub the orange, then rinse well and dry. Using a paring knife or vegetable peeler, remove only the outer colored portion of the peel in thin strips. Slice the peel into thin slivers, about 2 to 3 inches long.
3. In an 8-quart stainless steel stockpot, combine the water, 1½ cups of the sugar, and the orange peel. Cook over mediumlow heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Increase the heat to medium, bring the mixture to a boil, and boil gently for 5 minutes.
4. Add the pineapple pieces and lemon juice to the syrup and return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pineapple and orange peel from the pan. Cover and set aside.
5.  Add the remaining 1½ cups sugar to the syrup and heat, stirring until completely dissolved. Bring the syrup to a boil and then boil for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the coconut rum.
6. Using a slotted spoon, pack the pineapple into hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Ladle the hot syrup into the jars, covering the pineapple and maintaining the ½-inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles. Wipe the jar rims and threads with a clean damp paper towel. Apply hot lids and screw bands.
7. Process pint jars in a water bath canner for 15 minutes; quart jars for 20 minutes. Remove from the
   water bath canner and let cool for 12 to 24 hours. Check the seals and remove the screw bands. Store jars in a cool, dry, dark place for up to 1 year.

SERVING SUGGESTION:

• The pineapple can be eaten right out of the jar or added to cakes, sweet breads, or fruit compotes. The juice is fantastic used as a sweetener in iced tea, cocktails, and fruit smoothies. The possibilities are endless.