Prosciutto-Wrapped Pineapple Bites

This recipe comes from Eating Well. We are going on a trip to Hawaii this year and in honor of that, I decided to make this recipe. I must say I was somewhat skeptical since I am not a huge fan of ketchup for uses other than fries but it turned out pretty darn good. My wife really liked it and even my 2 year old ate some. Although he liked the raw pineapple better. :)

Makes: 8 servings, 3 “bites” & about 1 Tbsp. sauce each
Serving Size: 3 “bites” & about 1 Tbsp. sauce
Active Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment: Parchment paper, toothpicks

INGREDIENTS
1 fresh pineapple
4 thin slices prosciutto (2 ounces)
1/2 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon canola oil
1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

PREPARATION

Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and remove the skin with a sharp knife. Cut the pineapple in quarters lengthwise through the core. Cut out the core. (Reserve half the pineapple for another use.) Cut 2 of the pieces in half again lengthwise, then cut those 4 pieces crosswise into 6 equal pieces to make 24 chunks. Cut each slice of prosciutto lengthwise into 3 strips. Cut each strip in half crosswise to make 24 pieces total. Wrap a piece of prosciutto around each chunk of pineapple. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake on the upper rack until the prosciutto is sizzling and browned in spots, 15 to 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, cornstarch and garlic powder in a small bowl. Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add jalapeño and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the juice mixture; bring to a simmer. Cook until glossy and thickened, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve the pineapple bites on toothpicks with the dipping sauce.