Hawaiian BBQ from Earl of Sandwich features tender, smoky pulled pork glazed with sweet and tangy pineapple BBQ sauce, topped with fresh pineapple slices and crisp onions, all nestled in a toasted sandwich bun for a tropical twist on classic barbecue flavors.
Equipments
- Oven or toaster
- Grill or stovetop
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
- Baking sheet or tray
- Spoon or ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pulled pork
- 1 cup pineapple BBQ sauce
- 4 sandwich buns
- 1 cup fresh pineapple slices
- ½ cup thinly sliced onion
- Salt
- Black pepper
Pulled pork is the key protein in this Hawaiian BBQ, so look for tender, pre-cooked options to save prep time. The pineapple BBQ sauce should be sweet and tangy, complementing the fresh pineapple slices to create the signature tropical flavor. Thinly sliced onions add a sharp crunch, balancing the richness of the pork and sauce. Lightly toasting the sandwich buns ensures they stay sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy. Your copycat version of Hawaiian BBQ from Earl of Sandwich will shine with these fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or toaster to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice onions and pineapples using knife and cutting board.
- Season pulled pork with salt and black pepper in mixing bowl.
- Heat pulled pork in saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Stir in pineapple BBQ sauce; cook for 2-3 minutes until pork is coated.
- Toast sandwich buns on grill, stovetop, or in oven until lightly browned.
- Layer pineapple slices and sliced onions on bottom half of buns.
- Spoon sauced pulled pork over pineapple and onions.
- Place top half of buns on sandwiches.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Creating a copycat Hawaiian BBQ sandwich like the one from Earl of Sandwich involves grilling or toasting your sandwich buns to achieve a crispy texture. If fresh pineapple slices are unavailable, canned pineapple chunks drained and patted dry can substitute without sacrificing the sweet, tangy flavor. Pulled pork can be replaced with shredded chicken or jackfruit for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative, adjusting seasoning accordingly. When preparing the pineapple BBQ sauce, you can simmer it gently in a saucepan to thicken if it's too runny, ensuring it coats the pulled pork evenly. Take care not to over-salt, as the BBQ sauce and pineapple already add a balance of sweetness and acidity to your dish.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your oven or toaster to 350degF (175degC) before starting to toast the buns for even browning. When heating the pulled pork in the saucepan, use medium heat to avoid drying it out and stir frequently to ensure the pineapple BBQ sauce coats every strand. Thinly slice the onions and pineapples evenly for consistent texture and flavor distribution in your sandwich. You'll find that assembling the sandwich immediately after heating keeps the bun from becoming soggy, preserving your Hawaiian BBQ's perfect texture.
Nutritions
Hawaiian BBQ from Earl of Sandwich provides a balanced combination of protein from tender pulled pork and natural sugars from fresh pineapple slices and pineapple BBQ sauce. The pulled pork offers essential amino acids important for muscle repair and maintenance, while the pineapple adds vitamin C and bromelain, supporting digestion and immune health. Onions contribute dietary fiber and antioxidants, enhancing overall nutrient density. Your meal delivers a flavorful yet nutritious option that combines protein, vitamins, and antioxidants in a convenient sandwich form.
Storage
Store any leftover Hawaiian BBQ pulled pork in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Reheat the pork gently in a saucepan over medium heat to prevent drying out while preserving the smoky and tangy flavor profile. Keep fresh pineapple slices and sliced onions separate in small containers to maintain their crisp texture and add just before assembling your sandwich.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute pulled pork with shredded rotisserie chicken for a leaner protein option while maintaining the dish's smoky sweetness. Try grilling the pineapple slices to enhance their caramelized flavor before assembling your sandwich. A splash of apple cider vinegar in the pineapple BBQ sauce can add a subtle tang that brightens the overall taste. Consider mixing diced jalapenos into the sauce for an extra kick of heat tailored to your preference.
Allergies
Hawaiian BBQ from Earl of Sandwich contains common allergens such as pork and wheat (from the sandwich buns), which may cause reactions in those with meat or gluten allergies. The pineapple BBQ sauce includes pineapple and potentially other ingredients, so individuals with fruit allergies should exercise caution. Your sensitivity to onions should also be considered, as they are used fresh in the sandwich.
Why this recipe?
Hawaiian BBQ from Earl of Sandwich features a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, combining tender smoked meats with tangy pineapple and a special barbecue sauce that creates a balanced taste experience. The sandwich uses freshly baked bread that enhances the overall texture and freshness, setting it apart from typical barbecue dishes. You can recreate this popular menu item at home to enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal that offers a perfect harmony of smoky, sweet, and savory notes. Making a copycat version allows control over ingredient quality and customization to suit your personal taste preferences.