Nothing beats a good BBQ, but if you want to take your grilling game to the next level, adding a Hawaiian twist is the way to go. Hawaiian flavors bring a perfect balance of sweet, salty, smoky, and umami, making your BBQ dishes even more mouthwatering. Whether you’re cooking up ribs, chicken, seafood, or even veggies, a few key ingredients can transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Let’s explore some delicious ways to give your BBQ an authentic Hawaiian touch!
- Use a Hawaiian-style marinade
Hawaiian BBQ is all about bold, flavorful marinades. A classic Hawaiian marinade usually includes:
- Soy sauce for saltiness
- Brown sugar or pineapple juice for sweetness
- Garlic and ginger for depth
- Sesame oil for a rich, nutty flavor
To make a simple marinade, mix these ingredients and soak your meat or seafood for at least a few hours (or overnight for the best flavor). The combination of salty, sweet, and umami creates a perfect caramelized crust when grilled.
- Season with furikake for extra umami
If you haven’t tried Furikake on BBQ yet, you’re missing out! Furikake is a Japanese-inspired seasoning that’s hugely popular in Hawaii. It typically contains roasted seaweed, sesame seeds, salt, and other flavors that enhance food with a subtle crunch and umami kick.
For an authentic Hawaiian flavor, sprinkle nori komi furikake seasoning on meats or seafood before grilling. It works especially well on grilled salmon, shrimp, and even burgers. The blend of sesame and seaweed pairs perfectly with smoky, grilled flavors.
- Glaze with Hawaiian-style sauces
Marinades are great for flavoring meats before cooking, but a glaze adds the finishing touch. Try these classic Hawaiian BBQ glazes:
- Pineapple Teriyaki Glaze: Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and a little cornstarch to thicken. Brush it on ribs or chicken in the last few minutes of grilling.
- Huli Huli Sauce: A Hawaiian favorite made with soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and ginger. It’s perfect for grilled chicken.
- Mango BBQ Sauce: Blend mango puree with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tropical twist.
For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle nori furikake on top of the glazed meat right before serving. The umami-rich seasoning balances out the sweetness of the sauce.
- Grill with Hawaiian wood or charcoal
For a true island-style BBQ, the way you cook matters just as much as the seasoning. In Hawaii, traditional BBQ often uses kiawe wood, a type of mesquite that gives food a distinct smoky flavor. If you can’t find kiawe, mesquite or hickory wood chips work as great substitutes.
Cooking over charcoal instead of gas also helps to achieve that deep, smoky taste that makes Hawaiian BBQ so special.
- Try furikake-crusted meats
For a crunchy, flavorful crust on your grilled meats, try a furikake coating. Here’s how:
- Season your meat with salt and pepper.
- Brush it with a little oil or soy sauce to help the coating stick.
- Coat it in Hawaiian furikake before grilling.
This works exceptionally well on grilled ahi tuna, salmon, and even steaks. The furikake adds a crispy texture and a burst of umami that makes every bite irresistible.
- Don’t forget the sides
A Hawaiian BBQ isn’t complete without delicious side dishes. Try these island-inspired sides to complement your main course:
- Hawaiian Mac Salad: A creamy, tangy macaroni salad that’s a staple at any Hawaiian BBQ.
- Grilled Pineapple: The natural sweetness of pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making it a perfect side or topping.
- Furikake Corn on the Cob: Brush grilled corn with butter and sprinkle nori komi furikake seasoning for a salty, crunchy upgrade.
- Hawaiian Slaw: A tropical coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, pineapple, and a light sesame dressing.
- Finish with a tropical drink
No Hawaiian BBQ is complete without a refreshing drink. Pair your meal with a classic Mai Tai, Pina Colada, or Hawaiian Sun fruit juice for an authentic island experience.
Bring the aloha spirit to your BBQ
Adding Hawaiian flavors to your BBQ is easier than you think. A simple marinade, a sprinkle of Hawaiian furikake, and a tropical glaze can transform your grilling experience. Whether you’re making furikake-crusted seafood, teriyaki-glazed ribs, or just upgrading your side dishes, these small touches will bring big island flavors to your backyard.
So fire up the grill, grab your favorite furikake blend, and enjoy a Hawaiian-style BBQ that brings the taste of the islands to your table!
Have you tried Hawaiian BBQ before? Let us know your favorite island-inspired recipes in the comments!
