Huli-huli (sauce)

Huli-huli sauce is a traditional Hawaiian marinade and basting sauce that has gained popularity in American and international cuisines. It is most commonly associated with Huli-huli chicken, a grilled chicken dish that is marinated and then turned (huli means "turn" in Hawaiian) over a grill. The sauce is known for its unique combination of flavors, typically including soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and pineapple juice, which creates a savory, sweet, and slightly tangy taste.

Ingredients and Preparation

The base ingredients of huli-huli sauce include:

• Soy sauce for saltiness and depth
• Brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization
• Garlic and ginger for aromatic spice
• Pineapple juice for a tropical tang and natural sweetness
• Ketchup or tomato paste may also be added for thickness and acidity

To prepare huli-huli sauce, the ingredients are typically mixed together and simmered until they reduce slightly, thickening into a rich, flavorful sauce. It can be used both as a marinade before grilling and as a basting sauce during the cooking process.

Culinary Uses

Huli-huli sauce is versatile and can be used with a variety of meats beyond chicken, including pork, beef, and seafood. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it a favorite for barbecues and outdoor cooking events. In addition to being used as a marinade and basting sauce, huli-huli sauce can also serve as a dipping sauce or glaze for cooked meats.

Cultural Significance

Originally developed in the 1950s by Ernest Morgado of Hawaii, huli-huli chicken and its sauce have become emblematic of Hawaiian barbecue cuisine. The dish and its sauce gained widespread popularity through fundraising events where it was often cooked and sold. Today, huli-huli sauce and chicken are staples at Hawaiian luaus and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Variations

While the basic recipe for huli-huli sauce remains consistent, many cooks add their own twist to the sauce by adjusting the ingredient ratios or adding other components such as sesame oil, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce to suit their taste preferences.

See Also

• Hawaiian cuisine
• Barbecue sauce
• Marination
• Grilling