Hawaiian pulled pork is an easy, delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any time. It is the ideal dish for a tropical feast, perfect for summer barbecues and family dinners.
The succulent flavors of the pork are complimented by sweet, tangy sauces and spices, all of which come together to create a meal that’s sure to please.
This sweet and savory pork dish is easy to make, but what to serve with Hawaiian pulled pork?
Here are some ideas for sides that will make your Hawaiian pulled pork experience even better! So, Let’s explore some delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with this tasty meal!
What is Hawaiian pulled pork? What does Hawaiian pulled pork taste like?
Hawaiian pulled pork is a type of slow-roasted, slow-smoked pork that has been cooked in a sweet and tangy marinade.
The marinade may contain pineapple juice, garlic, onions, soy sauce and brown sugar.
This combination creates an incredibly tender and juicy pork with a unique flavor of sweetness and tanginess.
Hawaiian pulled pork has a slightly smoky taste due to the cooking method as well as the marinade ingredients. It has become popular in many parts of the world because it is easy to make yet full of flavor.
The meat can range from tender to chewy depending on how long it is cooked, but it should always be moist and flavorful.
Serve Hawaiian pulled pork in tacos, wraps, sandwiches and even salads.
The sweet and tangy taste of the pork go well with a variety of other ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, fruits or beans.
Hawaiian pulled pork is a great way to add some unique flavor to your dishes without too much effort. Enjoy!
Best Sides to serve with Hawaiian pulled pork.
1. Fruit salsa
Fruit salsa is an excellent accompaniment to Hawaiian pulled pork because it adds a refreshing sweetness and acidity to the dish.
This salsa is made with diced pineapple, mango, jicama, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder.
It’s also incredibly easy to make—all you have to do is mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Serve your fruit salsa on a bed of lettuce for a light yet flavorful side dish.
2. Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is the perfect complement to your Hawaiian pulled pork dinner. This recipe calls for jasmine or basmati rice cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with garlic and ginger.
To finish it off, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro over your coconut rice before serving it alongside your pork.
This side dish will add some sweetness and texture to your meal while also providing some extra nutrients like fiber and protein.
3. Coconut Coleslaw
Another great side option for Hawaiian pulled pork is coconut coleslaw.
This version uses shredded cabbage tossed in a creamy dressing made with coconut milk and lime juice, as well as garlic, ginger, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar and soy sauce for added flavor.
If you’re looking for something light but still flavorful to go with your dinner, then this coleslaw is definitely worth trying out!
4. Grilled Pineapple Slices
Nothing says tropical like grilled pineapple slices! This sweet and juicy fruit pairs perfectly with Hawaiian-style pulled pork.
To prepare, just slice fresh pineapples into rings or wedges, brush lightly with olive oil and place on the grill. Grill each side until lightly charred and caramelized.
Serve alongside your Hawaiian-style pulled pork for a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors.
5. Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are a staple in many tropical cuisines, including Hawaiian cuisine.
Plantains are similar to bananas in flavor but firmer in texture when cooked, making them perfect for frying or baking!
For this recipe, peel and slice the plantain into thin slices before frying in oil until golden brown and crispy.
They can be served as an accompanying side dish with your Hawaiian-style pulled pork or as a garnish topping for extra flavor!
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6. Mashed Potatoes
The creamy and comforting flavor of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky notes of Hawaiian pulled pork.
7. Cornbread
Cornbread adds a crunchy texture and subtle sweetness that cuts through the richness of the pork.
8. Green Salad
For a light and refreshing side dish, serve a green salad with your Hawaiian pulled pork.
Mixed greens like kale, spinach, or arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette work especially well.
9. Fruit Salad
A fruit salad made with mangoes, pineapple, oranges, apples, and kiwi is an excellent way to brighten up your pulled pork platter while adding some necessary sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the pork.
10. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic southern side dish that brings tangy crunchiness to any meal—especially when paired with Hawaiian pulled pork!
11. Baked Beans
Nothing goes better with barbecue than baked beans! Whether you use canned or prepare your own from scratch, baked beans are sure to make for an unforgettable combination when served alongside your juicy pork sandwiches.
12. Macaroni & Cheese
Macaroni & cheese provides a comforting creaminess that complements the smoky flavor of Hawaiian pulled pork perfectly!
You can also add extra veggies, such as broccoli or cauliflower, for added nutrition and flavor!
13. Biscuits
Buttery biscuits make for great accompaniments to any BBQ meal—especially Hawaiian pulled pork sandwiches! Serve them warm alongside honey butter for an added treat.
Learn More: What to Serve with Biscuits|Creative Pairings You Need to Try
14. Roasted Vegetables
An array of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, onions, squash, and zucchini makes for a tasty way to add more nutrition while still complementing your sandwich’s flavors without overpowering them at all!
15. Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for something cool but hearty enough to stand up to bold BBQ flavors, then try pairing Hawaiian pulled pork with pasta salad!
Fusilli noodles work especially well when tossed in pesto or vinaigrette dressing along with diced vegetables such as tomatoes and olives or cucumber slices for extra crunchiness!
16. Grilled Peaches & Pears
Sweet grilled peaches and pears make an excellent dessert when served over ice cream after eating your sandwich—or provide a tasty treat while eating it if you don’t want anything too heavy afterward!
17. Potato Chips
Thinly sliced potato chips provide guests a crunchy snack during their meal —they also make great toppings on sandwiches, too, if you’re feeling experimental!
18. Baked Potato
A loaded baked potato is always a good choice when it comes to pairing upsides! (Recipe)
Load it up with sour cream, cheese, chives, bacon bits – whatever you fancy! It will definitely go great with your succulent Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich!
19. Corn on the Cob
Of course – no summertime BBQ would be complete without freshly grilled corn on the cob!
The sweet & smoky flavor of Hawaiian Pulled Pork just begs for some creamy, buttery corn to go along with it! It’s an absolute classic pairing that will definitely stand out in any meal!
Explore More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
20. Fried Okra
Fried okra is another classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with pork sandwiches.
The crunchy and slightly salty taste works great as a contrast to the rich flavors of your sandwich. Plus, you get all those amazing health benefits from eating okra too!
21. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to your Hawaiian Pulled Pork!
The sweetness of the potatoes perfectly complements the savory flavors in the sandwich while adding an interesting twist.
22. Pickled Veggies
Adding a bit of tangy pickled veggies can really bring out the flavors of Hawaiian pulled pork sandwiches.
Try adding cucumber slices or jalapenos for added kick or bell peppers for a milder flavor! Pickled veggies are a great way to add some extra crunch and acidity to your meal.
23. Sautéed Greens
Kale, chard, spinach, or any other green you like can be quickly cooked in a hot pan with some oil and garlic for a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with Hawaiian pulled pork.
The greens will provide some extra nutrition while still managing to hold their own against the bold flavors of the sandwich!
24. Macaroni Salad
Macaroni Salad is a classic side dish that will take your Hawaiian pulled pork sandwich to the next level.
It’s full of creamy, tangy flavors that pair perfectly with savory pork dishes. Plus, it adds a nice carb element that can help balance out any meal!
25. Potato Salad
Another great pairing when it comes to Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwiches is creamy, tangy potato salad.
The potatoes can be served either hot or cold, depending upon your preference, and you can always add some extras like bacon bits, chives or even boiled eggs in there, too, if you wish! Plus – it’s so easy.
Explore More:Best Side Dishes to serve with Potato Salad and Baked Beans
What are the best flavors to go with Hawaiian pulled pork?
Hawaiian pulled pork is a delicious and mouthwatering dish that pairs well with many different flavors.
Some of the best flavors to pair with Hawaiian pulled pork include pineapple, coconut, mango, ginger, garlic, onion, brown sugar, and chili peppers.
A traditional Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce made with pineapple juice will help bring out all the flavors in the pulled pork.
Additionally, adding some tropical fruits like mango or papaya can add a sweet and savory touch to the dish.
If you like it spicy, a sprinkle of chili pepper flakes can give your Hawaiian pulled pork an extra kick!
To finish off your masterpiece, you can add fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added flavor.
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How do you jazz up Hawaiian pulled pork?
One great way to jazz up Hawaiian pulled pork is by adding a variety of different sauces.
For example, teriyaki sauce, ketchup, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce can all be used to give the pork an extra kick of flavor.
Additionally, you can also add spices such as garlic powder or onion powder to boost the overall taste.
Other ways to bring out its flavors include marinating it in pineapple juice or coconut milk overnight before cooking.
Finally, adding diced bell peppers and onions while cooking will also add some delicious texture and flavor to it.
With these few tips in mind, your Hawaiian pulled pork will surely become a hit with your family!
How do you display Hawaiian pulled pork on a platter?
To display Hawaiian pulled pork on a platter, start by arranging the pork in an attractive way.
Place the shredded pork in a mound or a row, then top with diced pineapple and toasted coconut flakes.
Serve with side dishes such as steamed rice, macaroni salad, poi, pickled ginger, and fresh sliced mango.
To finish it off, add some sprigs of cilantro or parsley for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian-style pulled pork!
Wrap Up on what to serve with Hawaiian pulled pork.
With these delicious side dishes, you can easily turn your Hawaiian pulled pork dinner into something special!
From fruit salsa full of sweet-tangy flavors to coconut-infused coleslaw or even creamy coconut rice – there are plenty of options available when it comes to pairing up this traditional Polynesian dish with something special!
So why not give one (or all) of these sides a try next time you’re making some homemade Hawaiian pulled pork? You won’t regret it!
FAQs
How much Hawaiian pulled pork per person?
When it comes to deciding how much Hawaiian pulled pork per person, it can be tricky.
It depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of event you’re hosting, the size and appetite of participants, and any side dishes or accompaniments you plan on serving with the Hawaiian pulled pork.
Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to estimate about 1/2 pound of cooked pork per person for an entrée portion.
If you’re serving smaller portions as an appetizer or in slider form, then 3-4 ounces per person would probably suffice.
Additionally, if guests are likely to take seconds, then you may want to pad your estimates by 10%-20%.
What goes with a traditional Hawaiian pig roast?
To make it complete, you’ll need accompaniments such as poi, lomi salmon, pickled onions and peppers, taro chips, and haupia (coconut pudding).
Be sure to provide plenty of pineapple for your guests to enjoy.
If you’re looking for ways to spice up the meal further, consider adding sides like macaroni salad or potato salad. Don’t forget drinks!
Traditional Hawaiian dishes go best with tropical juices and sweet teas.
Finally, don’t forget dessert! A classic choice is coconut cake or other tropical flavors like mango or guava ice cream. Enjoy your pig roast! Aloha!
What vegetables go with Hawaiian pork?
When it comes to side dishes for Hawaiian pork, you can’t go wrong with a variety of vegetables.
Some classic combinations include steamed white rice, stir-fried or roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed cabbage.
To add some extra flavor, try adding bell peppers and pineapple for a tropical twist.
You could also serve the pork with grilled zucchini or eggplant, pan-seared green beans, or even a simple cucumber salad. Whatever you choose, these veggies will make your meal complete!