Huli huli chicken, with its sweet and savory glaze, is a Hawaiian culinary gem. But what truly makes this dish shine is the perfect accompaniment. The right side dishes can complement the chicken's unique flavors, creating a balanced and unforgettable meal. This guide explores the best options, from traditional Hawaiian sides to more contemporary pairings.
What are some traditional Hawaiian sides to serve with huli huli chicken?
Traditional Hawaiian cuisine perfectly complements the rich flavors of huli huli chicken. Think fresh, vibrant ingredients that balance the sweetness and savoriness of the glaze. Some excellent choices include:
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Hawaiian White Rice: This fluffy, subtly sweet rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the delicious glaze. Its simple nature lets the chicken's flavors take center stage.
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Macaroni Salad: A creamy, tangy macaroni salad, often featuring mayonnaise, celery, and sometimes pineapple, offers a textural contrast to the tender chicken. The slight sweetness and acidity cut through the richness of the glaze.
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Lomi Salmon: This refreshing salad, made with salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes seaweed, brings a vibrant burst of freshness to the table. The salty salmon complements the sweet glaze beautifully.
What other sides go well with huli huli chicken?
While traditional Hawaiian sides are a fantastic choice, many other dishes work wonderfully with huli huli chicken. Consider these options to expand your culinary horizons:
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Grilled Pineapple: The sweetness of grilled pineapple enhances the already delicious glaze, adding a smoky char that pairs perfectly. It's a simple yet effective side that showcases the tropical essence of the dish.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a comforting and contrasting element to the chicken's glaze. The soft texture adds another dimension to the meal.
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Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: For a healthier, lighter side, steamed vegetables offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken and other sides. Their bright green color also provides a visual contrast.
What kind of vegetables go well with huli huli chicken?
Vegetables are a fantastic addition to a huli huli chicken meal, adding freshness and nutritional balance. Beyond the steamed broccoli and green beans mentioned above, consider these:
- Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of corn on the cob complements the glaze and adds a delightful textural element. Grilling the corn enhances the smoky flavors further.
What are some good salads to serve with huli huli chicken?
Salads can add lightness and freshness to a huli huli chicken meal. Beyond the Lomi Salmon, consider:
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Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a clean and refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the chicken and other sides. Keep the dressing light to avoid overpowering the chicken's flavor.
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Caprese Salad: The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a vibrant and flavorful contrast, adding acidity and herbaceous notes.
What are some simple sides to serve with huli huli chicken?
If you prefer simple, quick sides, these options work perfectly:
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad provides a familiar and comforting side that complements the huli huli chicken's flavors.
By thoughtfully choosing your sides, you can elevate your huli huli chicken experience from a delicious meal to a truly memorable feast. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings! Remember to consider textures, flavors, and colors for a well-rounded and visually appealing spread.
