Hawaiian BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Hawaiian BBQ Sauce Recipe is one of my favorite homemade sauces because it is simple to prepare and delivers amazing flavor every time. The combination of sweet pineapple, smoky spices, and tangy ingredients creates a delicious sauce that pairs well with many dishes.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small mixing bowl
- Airtight glass jar or container
- Fine grater (for ginger)
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger finely grated
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Combine The Base Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, add pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar begins to dissolve and the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Add The Aromatics And Seasonings
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, black pepper, Sriracha sauce, and a small pinch of salt. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the sauce.
Step 3: Simmer The Sauce
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the sauce slightly reduces.
Step 4: Prepare The Thickening Slurry
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until completely smooth and free of lumps. This slurry will help create a glossy, thick barbecue sauce.
Step 5: Thicken The Sauce
- Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Cool And Store
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the Hawaiian BBQ sauce to cool for 10–15 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Transfer to a clean airtight jar or container and refrigerate until ready to use.