Do you dream of indulging in the exotic flavors of Hawaii without leaving the comfort of your home? Look no further than Ono Hawaiian BBQ sauce! This mouthwatering sauce, known as Huli-Huli sauce, combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and salty elements, making it an ideal marinade for chicken. Join us as we explore the origins of this signature Hawaiian delight and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen!
Key Takeaways
The Best Huli Huli BBQ Sauce
Imagine a sauce that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine – it’s none other than Huli-Huli BBQ sauce. This delectable blend of flavors will transport you to the sandy shores and vibrant landscapes of the beautiful islands. While the original sauce may be hard to find depending on your location, this homemade version brings the taste of Hawaii right to your plate.
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting Hawaii, you’ve likely encountered this sauce mentioned on menus throughout the islands. The distinctive flavor of Huli-Huli sauce has become a signature element of Hawaiian cuisine. Once you experience its unique taste, you’ll understand why it has gained such popularity!
The sweet and savory flavor of this Hawaiian BBQ sauce tastes great with pork or chicken!
With our recipe, you now have the opportunity to create your own version of Huli-Huli Hawaiian BBQ sauce right in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the origins and features of this beloved sauce.
Origins: A Happy Accident
In 1954, an enterprising World War II naval officer named Ernest Morgado teamed up with a chicken farmer in ‘Ewa, Hawaii, to establish a poultry company. During a meeting with local farmers the following year, Morgado prepared BBQ chicken using a teriyaki-style sauce – claimed to be his grandmother’s recipe.
As Morgado witnessed the sauce’s popularity, he began serving marinated chicken at charity fundraiser events. Over the years, this BBQ chicken became a hit, raising thousands of dollars for local charities. The name “Huli-Huli” itself emerged by accident.
Originally, Morgado roasted the chicken on a spit, regularly turning it for even cooking. The Hawaiian word for “turn” is “Huli,” and spectators would often shout “huli huli” as they watched the chicken cook. In 1967, Morgado and the Pacific Poultry Company trademarked the name “Huli-Huli,” and the dish became a staple at roadside stands, gas stations, and restaurants across Hawaii.
It wasn’t until 1986 that Morgado decided to bottle the beloved Huli-Huli sauce for mass production and availability in stores. Since then, it has become an iconic culinary delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
Let’s explore the reasons why Huli-Huli BBQ sauce has captured the hearts and palates of people worldwide:
- Versatility: This sauce can be used as both a sauce and a marinade. Whether you’re cooking chicken, pork, or even beef ribs, this sauce pairs well with almost anything.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of your time, you can create a delicious homemade BBQ sauce that rivals any store-bought variety.
- Flavorful Delight: The secret to the sauce’s popularity lies in the pineapple, which adds the perfect amount of sweetness to create a BBQ sauce unlike any other.
Ingredients: A Simple Blend of Flavors
Creating your own Huli-Huli Hawaiian BBQ sauce requires a handful of simple ingredients that can be found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ⅓ cup Ketchup
- ½ cup Light Brown Sugar
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce
- ½ cup Pineapple Juice
- 2 tablespoons Mirin
- 1 ½ teaspoons Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Ginger
- 1 tablespoon Chili Paste
Note: For detailed measurements and instructions, refer to the recipe card below.
Crafting Your Own Ono Hawaiian Bbq Sauce
Now that we’ve covered the background and ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your very own Ono Hawaiian BBQ sauce. With just four simple steps, you’ll be savoring the flavors of Hawaii in no time!
- Grate: Begin by finely grating the garlic. If you don’t have a microplane, you can mince the garlic very finely.
- Boil: In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients – ketchup, light brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, mirin, garlic, ginger, and chili paste – and bring them to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Stir the sauce frequently as it thickens.
- Thicken: Once the sauce reaches a thick consistency that coats the back of a spoon or spatula, remove the saucepan from heat.
- Cool: Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. If you plan to store it for later use, let it cool completely.
This recipe yields approximately 1 ½ cups of BBQ sauce, with 2 tablespoons per serving. The possibilities for this tantalizing sauce are endless – use it as a marinade for boneless country-style pork ribs, or stay true to tradition and serve it atop grilled or baked Huli Huli chicken. Get creative and enjoy the flavors of Hawaii in your own kitchen!
Angela’s Tips & Recipe Notes
To ensure the best results with your Ono Hawaiian BBQ sauce, here are a few tips from Angela to keep in mind:
- Marinating Meat: When using this sauce as a marinade, cover and chill the meat for at least an hour, but overnight marination yields the best results.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer using a slow cooker, simply pour the sauce over your chicken and let it cook all day. For those coveted caramelized bits reminiscent of grilling, finish by placing the cooked chicken under the broiler for 3-5 minutes (keep a close eye on it!).
- Watch the Thickness: As the sauce thickens, be sure to monitor and stir it to prevent burning.
- The Authentic Huli-Huli Experience: For an authentic Huli-Huli flavor, make sure to turn your meat while grilling and baste it generously with the sauce.
Storing Your Ono Hawaiian Bbq Sauce
Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. However, freezing your homemade Hawaiian BBQ sauce is not recommended, as it may alter the texture and taste.
Explore More DIY Sauces
If you’re a fan of homemade sauces, we invite you to try some of our other delicious creations:
- Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Bloves Sauce
- Teriyaki Sauce
- Arrabbiata Sauce
- Hibatchi Mustard Sauce
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, preparing a family meal, or simply craving the mouthwatering flavors of Hawaii, Ono Hawaiian BBQ sauce will elevate your culinary adventures. Fire up the grill, marinate your favorite meats, and immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of flavors. Aloha!
