Let's Hula in Hawaii

Hawaii may be our youngest state; however, it is full of facts and information.  Did you know they are known as the Aloha State, Pineapple State, and also the Paradise of the Pacific?  Looking at pictures makes me want to get on a plane and never look back.

Since I know that is not possible, we decided to take our Staycation across the country a mere 4,703 miles.  We learned about the volcanoes and cliffs, where to do go for whale watching, and of course the famous luaus!  What Chad Albright wouldn't give to be able to roast a pig in the backyard (this might be possible!)


Grilled Huli Huli Chicken:

12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup ketchup
3/4 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons ginger - minced
1 teaspoon garlic - minced
1 teaspoon Srirachi sauce (optional)

In a mixing bowl add brown sugar,

Ketchup,

Soy sauce and chicken broth,

Now it's time to use my new kitchen gadgets that I purchased at a Pampered Chef party.  The garlic is the next ingredient to add but first I need to peel it.

Just put the garlic cloves into the tube and roll it back and forth applying pressure as you go. Within 30 seconds this is what you will see...it's like magic for a cook!

After peeling, you will need to mince.  I used my new Smash and Mince and is was so easy!

Then, you will need to add the ginger.  Most people prefer to use dried ginger (because of convenience) but the taste is just not the same.  First you will need to peel it - I use a vegetable peeler.

Then, I cut it into small pieces and used the Smash and Mince again.

Mix all ingredients together.

Pour into gallon Zip-Lock bag.

Add chicken and marinate in fridge for at least 4 hours.

When ready, discard liquid and prepare grill.

Grill using direct heat on medium-low setting for 30-45 minutes.

Here are some shots to show the cooking process in action.

The beginning:

The middle:

The end:

We have lots of chicken...anyone want to join us?



Gilled Pineapple:

1 pineapple - peeled, cored, and cut into 1 inch rings
1/4 teaspoon honey
3 tablespoons butter - melted
1 dash of Tabasco
pinch of salt

Grab a gallon Zip-Lock bag and place the honey in first,

Add butter,

Tabasco and salt,

Please note that Chad has his own special bottle of Tabasco sauce...anyone else have one?

Mix marinade well in bag and add pineapple slices. Coat pineapple with sauce.
Marinate for at least an hour to overnight.

Prepare grill by lightly oiling the grate.

Grill on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

Pineapple should have dark grill marks.

Serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken with Grilled Pineapple, White Rice, and Hawaiian Rolls.  If you are really in the mood, turn on some Hawaiian music and set a festive table!