What is Pulehu Chicken? An In-Depth Look at This Savory Hawaiian Grilling Technique

Pulehu chicken is a mouthwatering Hawaiian grilled chicken dish with a deliciously smoky and savory flavor This traditional cooking technique produces juicy, tender chicken with a charred exterior and distinct island flavors

In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about pulehu chicken. We will cover

• The definition and origins of pulehu chicken
• How it is prepared using a unique open-flame grilling method
• The classic ingredients used to make it
• Step-by-step instructions for making it at home
• How it differs from teriyaki chicken
• Creative variations and substitutions you can try
• Its importance in Hawaiian culture

So let’s get fired up and explore the savory world of pulehu chicken!

What Is Pulehu Chicken?

Pulehu chicken refers to chicken that is grilled or broiled over an open flame or hot coals, The term “pulehu” itself translates to “grilled” or “broiled” in the Hawaiian language

This cooking technique has been used for centuries in traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Chicken is typically marinated in a simple blend of ingredients before being cooked over a wood or charcoal fire.

The high, direct heat helps to seal in moisture while also imparting a delicious charred flavor and aroma. Pulehu chicken emerges juicy, smoky, and imbued with the sweet, salty, and umami notes of the marinade.

Understanding the Essence of Pulehu

So what makes pulehu chicken special compared to other grilled chicken dishes? It all comes down to the straightforward preparation method that allows the natural flavors of the chicken and marinade to shine.

• Simplicity of the marinade – The marinade usually contains just a few key ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper. This lets the chicken take center stage.

• Open-flame grilling – Cooking directly over hot coals or an open fire source results in a char that can’t be replicated on a regular grill.

• Smoky flavor – The smoke from the fire penetrates the chicken skin, imparting a wonderful smoky essence. Hardwoods like mesquite are often used.

• Crisp skin – The high heat crisps up the skin beautifully. Basting with oil helps further crisp and caramelize it.

• Juicy meat – Quick cooking times prevent the lean chicken from drying out. The marinade also keeps it tender.

The Significance of the Fire

It’s clear that fire is absolutely essential to creating authentic pulehu chicken. But not just any cooking fire will do. There are a few things to keep in mind regarding the fire:

• Fuel source – Hardwoods like mesquite, oak, and fruit woods are ideal for generating flavorful smoke. Avoid softwoods like pine. Lump charcoal also works very well.

• High heat – The fire needs to burn hot, around 600-700°F at grill level. This ensures proper searing.

• Coal base – For best results, build a base of hot coals to cook on rather than flames. Let the coals ash over before grilling.

• Consistent heat – Try to maintain an even, consistent heat rather than fluctuating temperatures. This allows the chicken to cook evenly.

• Wood chips – Adding soaked wood chips directly on the coals will increase smoke generation. Fruit woods like apple or cherry are nice complements.

Mastering fire management is essential for beautifully cooked pulehu chicken with that trademark smoky char.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pulehu Chicken

If you’re new to pulehu chicken, chances are you have some questions about how to make it and enjoy it properly. Here are answers to some of the most common FAQs:

FAQ 1: What is the primary difference between pulehu chicken and regular grilled chicken?

The main difference is the direct high-heat cooking method. Pulehu chicken is cooked directly over hot coals or an open fire, while regular grilled chicken is prepared over lower, indirect heat on a grate. This allows pulehu chicken to develop a unique char and smokiness.

FAQ 2: What are the essential ingredients for making pulehu chicken?

At its core, you just need chicken, kosher salt, black pepper, and a cooking fire. Some additional essentials are soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and wood chips. Keeping the marinade simple is key.

FAQ 3: Can I use any type of chicken for pulehu?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken legs and thighs are ideal. Breast meat tends to dry out. You want the bone for flavor and fat for moisture.

FAQ 4: What kind of wood is best for creating the smoky flavor in pulehu chicken?

Mesquite is the classic Hawaiian wood for pulehu chicken. But fruit woods like apple and cherry also impart mild, fruity smoke notes. Stay away from soft resinous woods.

FAQ 5: How do I build the perfect pulehu fire?

Start with a tall mound of lump charcoal. Once the coals are covered in ash, spread them out evenly. Let them burn for 30 minutes at around 650°F. Then start grilling.

FAQ 6: How long does it take to cook pulehu chicken?

Bone-in chicken legs and thighs take 15-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Boneless pieces take less time. Use a thermometer to ensure 165°F internal temp.

FAQ 7: How do I prevent the chicken from burning when cooking directly on the coals?

Use a wire grate to keep the chicken just above the coals. Rotate pieces every few minutes if flare-ups occur. Mist with oil to prevent sticking.

FAQ 8: Can I use a gas grill to make pulehu chicken?

Yes, use a cast iron skillet on the grates to mimic the effect of cooking directly over coals. Add hardwood chips to the smoker box for extra smoke.

FAQ 9: What are some popular variations on the traditional pulehu chicken recipe?

Some twists include using teriyaki, garlic-ginger, or citrus-herb marinades. Brushing on a glaze towards the end of grilling is also delicious.

FAQ 10: What are some side dishes that pair well with pulehu chicken?

Classic pairings include macaroni salad, rice, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruit like pineapple and mango. Aloha!

Pulehu Chicken vs. Teriyaki Chicken

Since teriyaki chicken is another popular Hawaiian grilled chicken dish, it’s common for people to confuse it with pulehu chicken. But there are some important differences between these two recipes:

• Pulehu uses a simple soy sauce and seasoning marinade applied before grilling. Teriyaki relies on a sweet sauce glaze basted on during grilling.

• Pulehu develops smoky, savory flavors from open-flame grilling. Teriyaki gets its flavor from the sticky teriyaki sauce mix of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar.

• Pulehu uses mostly thigh or leg pieces. Teriyaki works well with either thighs or chicken breast.

• Pulehu uses little to no sugar. Teriyaki depends heavily on sugar in the sauce recipe.

• Pulehu aims for a charred exterior and juicy interior. Teriyaki results in a lacquered glaze coating the chicken.

While both have their merits, pulehu chicken focuses more on enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken itself thanks to its simple preparation.

Variations and Substitutions for Pulehu Chicken

One of the great things about pulehu chicken is how versatile it is when it comes to experimenting with flavors. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Change up the marinade ingredients – try lemongrass, five-spice powder, miso paste, hoisin sauce, etc.

• Use alternative cooking fats – bacon grease, duck fat, and clarified butter offer richer flavors.

• Glaze the chicken during the last 5 minutes – honey, agave, brown sugar, teriyaki, etc. make delicious glazes.

• Stuff herbs under the skin – try thyme, rosemary, sage, etc. for infused flavors.

• Skewer bite-sized pieces – great for pick-up appetizers.

You can also substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner version, though the texture won’t be quite as moist. For non-chicken alternatives, shrimp, steak, and tofu all work well.

The Cultural Significance of Pulehu Chicken

Pulehu chicken isn’t just a delicious Hawaiian dish – it has great cultural importance as well. Here are some of the reasons this cooking style remains an integral part of Hawaiian cuisine and gatherings:

• It dates back centuries as a traditional cooking method used across the islands.

• The simple preparation and cooking over a fire pit represents connection to the land and community.

• Gathering around a fire or imu (underground oven) to pulehu food is a social tradition.

• The dish emphasizes use of natural, local ingredients with little waste.

• For Hawaiians, pulehu cooking brings people together through food and celebrations.

• The smoky, salty flavors are nostalgic tastes of the islands.

From backyard luaus to family dinner tables, pulehu chicken is bound to Hawaiian identity through its storied history, communal heritage, and unforgettable flavors.

So there you have it – everything you need to know about mastering delicious and authentic pulehu chicken. This Hawaiian classic deserves a spot in every griller’s repertoire. The smoky, charred flavors you can only achieve from open-flame cooking are truly unrivaled.

Pulehu chicken also happens to be easy for weeknight meals since it requires minimal prep time. So fire up those coals, grab some fresh chicken thighs, and let the aroma of aloha guide you. All it takes is a simple marinade, a hot fire, and a spirit of adventure to make this taste of the islands right in your backyard.