October 12, 2023

Hawaiian Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce – Easy Homemade Recipe & Serving

Unleash the flavors of the Hawaiian Islands with our Hawaiian Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce, an irresistible blend of smokiness, sweetness, and tanginess. Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of Hawaii, this sauce is your secret weapon for elevating grilled meats, vegetables, and more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or simply spicing up your weeknight meals, this easy homemade sauce will add a tropical twist to every bite.

As the sauce simmers, it transforms into a velvety, rich glaze that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. So, grab your ingredients, ignite your grill, and let your culinary journey to the islands begin!

The Story Behind Hawaiian BBQ Flavors

Hawaiian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino influences. This diversity is reflected in the Hawaiian Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce, which blends traditional Asian seasonings like soy sauce with tropical ingredients such as pineapple juice.

One of the earliest inspirations for this sauce is kalua pork, a dish traditionally prepared by slow-cooking a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu. The smoky, tender meat served at luaus became a signature flavor of the islands. Later, Japanese immigrants introduced teriyaki marinades, incorporating soy sauce and sweeteners, which further shaped Hawaiian barbecue flavors.

Today, this fusion of sweet and savory is more popular than ever, driven by the growing love for global cuisines and the rise of backyard grilling culture.

Why It’s a Crowd Favorite

This sauce is a hit because it combines three key elements: sweetness, smokiness, and tanginess—all perfectly balanced. It’s versatile enough to use as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce, making it ideal for everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables.

In addition to its bold flavor, it’s easy to customize for dietary preferences. Want a gluten-free version? Substitute tamari for soy sauce. Prefer less sugar? Reduce the brown sugar and let the natural sweetness of the pineapple juice shine through.

Bonus: It’s health-conscious!

Liquid smoke imparts an authentic smoky flavor without the need for hours of smoking meat, offering a shortcut to that irresistible BBQ essence.

Common Ingredients and Their Nutritional Benefits

This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients, each contributing something special to the sauce:

Ketchup: Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may promote heart health.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramelized sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami profile while adding a savory touch. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
Pineapple Juice: Packed with vitamin C and bromelain, a digestive enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides acidity that balances the sweetness while aiding digestion.
Liquid Smoke: Delivers authentic smoky flavor without a smoker.
Dijon Mustard, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Ground Ginger, and Black Pepper: These spices bring warmth, complexity, and a touch of heat.

Ingredient Substitution Tips:

Gluten-Free Option: Replace soy sauce with tamari.
Sweetener Swap: Try maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar for a different flavor twist.

Print Pin

Hawaiian Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce

Elevate your BBQ experience with our homemade Hawaiian-style Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce. This tantalizing blend of smokiness and sweetness captures the essence of the islands and perfectly complements grilled meats and vegetables.

Course Sauces, Stocks, and Accompaniments

Cuisine Hawaiian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Servings 16

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke over medium heat.
Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and ground ginger. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are incorporated.
Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop a rich consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, smokiness, or seasoning according to your preference. Add a touch more brown sugar for sweetness or a dash more liquid smoke for a stronger smoky flavor.
Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the BBQ sauce to cool. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage in the refrigerator.

Notes

Recipe Tips:

Customize Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar to find your desired balance between smokiness and sweetness.
Enhance Smokiness: Experiment with the amount of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky profile.
Consistency Control: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce, or add a bit of water to thin it out if needed.
Grill Partner: Brush the sauce on grilled meats or vegetables during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.

Nutrition Highlights

While BBQ sauces are often considered indulgent, this homemade version offers a more balanced approach. Its tomato base is a source of lycopene, and pineapple juice provides vitamin C and antioxidants. When paired with lean proteins or roasted vegetables, it can be part of a well-rounded meal.

Food Safety Tip: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to preserve it longer, consider canning it using proper sterilization techniques.

Creative Serving Ideas

This versatile sauce can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Grilled Meats: Brush it on chicken, pork chops, or ribs during the last few minutes of grilling for a glossy finish.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Drizzle over pulled pork to take it to the next level.
Vegetarian Options: Use as a glaze for grilled tofu or roasted sweet potatoes.
Tropical Tacos: Add a drizzle to fish tacos with fresh pineapple salsa.
Dipping Sauce: Serve with crispy appetizers like chicken tenders or roasted cauliflower.

Chef Tips for Perfect BBQ Sauce

Simmer for Depth: The longer you simmer the sauce, the richer and more concentrated the flavor will become.
Customize Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar quantity to suit your taste.
Master the Smokiness: Add more or less liquid smoke based on your preference.
Marinade Hack: Use the sauce as a marinade for chicken or pork. Just remember to set some aside for basting later to avoid cross-contamination.
Grill Glazing: For a perfect glossy finish, brush the sauce onto your meat in the final few minutes of grilling.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Smoky Sweet BBQ Sauce is more than just a condiment—it’s a celebration of culture, flavor, and tradition. With its rich blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy notes, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. As you whisk up a batch and savor its tropical flavors, you’re connecting with a history that spans cultures and centuries.

So, gather your ingredients, simmer the sauce to perfection, and let it transform your next meal into a Hawaiian-inspired feast!