Embark on a culinary journey to the tropics with these incredibly easy Hawaiian Tacos! This vibrant recipe transforms simple ground pork into a sweet and savory sensation, nestled in warm tortillas and generously topped with a refreshing pineapple mango salsa and a zesty homemade cilantro lime sauce. Get ready for a taste explosion that will transport your palate straight to the islands.

Craving more tantalizing taco creations? Explore these delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos or savor the unique flavors of these Crispy Black Bean Tacos.

Experience the Aloha: Irresistible Hawaiian Tacos with Pineapple Mango Salsa

Prepare to be utterly captivated by these Hawaiian Tacos! What started as a beloved recipe in 2013 has evolved into an even more extraordinary culinary experience. We’ve refined the flavors, creating a dish that’s not just good, but truly phenomenal.

While the refreshing pineapple mango salsa remained a perfect staple, the heart of the taco—the ground pork filling—underwent a delicious transformation. Gone are the days of simple barbecue sauce; instead, we’ve infused the pork with the same incredible sweet and savory sauce that makes our Huli Huli Chicken so irresistible. This strategic upgrade elevates the entire dish, creating a depth of flavor that is both exotic and comforting. Coupled with the vibrant and creamy homemade cilantro lime sauce, these tacos are truly taken over the top.

This isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer flavors, beautifully packaged in a taco, and wonderfully versatile for enjoyment any time of year. Get ready to add this recipe to your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love These Hawaiian Tacos

These Hawaiian Tacos aren’t just another taco recipe; they offer a unique fusion of flavors and textures that make them stand out. Here’s why they are sure to become a new family favorite:

• Explosion of Flavor: The combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and a hint of spice creates a dynamic flavor profile that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of tropical fruit and rich pork.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet taste, these tacos are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Most components can even be prepped in advance!
• Fresh & Vibrant Ingredients: Utilizing fresh pineapple, mango, and cilantro ensures a bright, refreshing quality that perfectly balances the rich pork. It’s a dish that feels light and indulgent all at once.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer more heat, different proteins, or unique toppings, this recipe serves as an excellent base for customization to suit your personal preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Tacos are inherently fun and appealing, and these Hawaiian Tacos, with their exotic twist, are guaranteed to impress guests and delight family members of all ages.

The Heart of Hawaiian Flavors: A Culinary Journey

The essence of Hawaiian cuisine often lies in its blend of indigenous Polynesian, Asian, and Western influences, frequently incorporating fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and savory marinades. Our Hawaiian Tacos draw inspiration from this rich tradition, particularly through the sweet and savory glaze on the pork and the bright, fruity salsa.

The pork filling, reminiscent of traditional Hawaiian-style meats, is cooked down to tender perfection with a sticky, flavorful sauce that features brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and ginger. This creates a deeply umami and slightly caramelized base that is both comforting and exotic. Paired with a vibrant salsa bursting with the sweetness of pineapple and mango, the creaminess of avocado, and the fresh kick of cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes.

The final touch, the cilantro lime sauce, adds a cool, zesty creaminess that ties all the elements together, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richer pork and a smooth finish to the tropical salsa. It’s a dish designed to transport you with every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Your Tropical Taco Night

Crafting these sensational Hawaiian Tacos requires a few key components, each playing a vital role in the overall flavor profile. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will always yield the best results.

For the Zesty Cilantro Lime Sauce:

• Fresh Cilantro: You’ll need approximately 1/2 cup of lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves. Don’t be shy with this aromatic herb; it provides a crucial fresh, herbaceous note. While I often eyeball it, roughly a generous handful is usually perfect.
• Sour Cream: This provides the creamy base for the sauce. Regular full-fat sour cream delivers the richest flavor and texture, but a low-fat version can be used for a lighter option without significantly compromising the taste.
• Mayonnaise: Adding mayonnaise alongside sour cream creates a wonderfully smooth and tangy consistency. As with sour cream, I typically opt for regular mayonnaise. For a healthier alternative, plain Greek yogurt can be substituted, though it might result in a slightly thicker sauce.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable here. About 1 tablespoon, typically from half a medium lime, provides the essential bright, citrusy acidity that cuts through the richness and enhances the cilantro.
• Salt and Pepper: These are critical for seasoning. Always taste your sauce before and after adding to ensure it’s perfectly balanced. Adjust to your personal preference.

For the Refreshing Pineapple Mango Salsa:

• Fresh Pineapple: One cup of finely diced fresh pineapple is needed. Its sweet and tangy tropical flavor is a cornerstone of this salsa. I usually use about half of a medium-sized pineapple, ensuring it’s ripe for maximum sweetness.
• Ripe Mango: A single large, ripe mango, diced small, adds another layer of juicy sweetness and a beautiful, vibrant color. Choose a mango that gives slightly when gently squeezed for optimal ripeness.
• Avocado: A perfectly ripe avocado adds a creamy, rich texture to the salsa, balancing the fruit’s acidity. When selecting, look for an avocado that is firm but yields to gentle pressure; avoid overly soft ones that might turn mushy when stirred.
• Fresh Cilantro: Similar to the sauce, cilantro is key here. Start with about 1/2 cup, measured before chopping, and adjust to your taste.
• Red Onion: Diced red onion provides a mild, crisp bite and a subtle sharpness. Its milder flavor when raw makes it ideal for salsas. If you prefer an even milder onion flavor, green onions (scallions) can be used.
• Jalapeño: For a touch of heat, one diced jalapeño is added. To control the spice level, make sure to remove the seeds and the white ribs (pith) inside, as these contain most of the capsaicin.
• Lime Juice: The juice of a whole lime, roughly 2 tablespoons, brightens the salsa and helps to meld all the flavors together.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors in the fruit and vegetables. Season to taste after mixing the salsa.

For the Savory Pork Tacos:

• Ground Pork: The star of the filling! About 1 1/2 pounds of ground pork offers a rich, tender base. While ground beef or ground chicken can be substituted, the inherent sweetness and texture of pork truly shine in this Hawaiian-inspired recipe.
• Light Brown Sugar: This provides the signature sweetness and helps create a lovely caramelization in the sauce. Light brown sugar is preferred for its molasses notes.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds essential umami and saltiness. Always opt for low sodium soy sauce to prevent the sauce from becoming overly salty, allowing you to control the seasoning.
• Ketchup: Regular ketchup contributes a subtle tang and sweetness, adding body and depth to the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar provides a crucial acidic lift, balancing the sweetness and richness of the pork and other sauce ingredients. White vinegar can be used as a substitute if apple cider vinegar isn’t available.
• Fresh Ginger: Minced fresh ginger is highly recommended for its pungent, zesty aroma and flavor, which is integral to Hawaiian-inspired dishes. If fresh ginger is unavailable, about 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be less intense.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic offers a robust, aromatic foundation for the pork. As with ginger, fresh is always best for maximum flavor impact.
• Tortillas: You’ll need about 12 tortillas for serving. Both flour and corn tortillas work wonderfully, so choose based on your preference. We typically favor soft flour tortillas for their pliability and neutral flavor that allows the fillings to shine.

Crafting Your Hawaiian Tacos: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bringing these Hawaiian Tacos to life is a straightforward process, broken down into manageable steps for maximum enjoyment and minimal stress. Follow these instructions to create a tropical feast:

STEP 1: Prepare the Cilantro Lime Sauce. Begin by gathering all the ingredients for your creamy cilantro lime sauce: cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh lime juice. Place them into a blender or a small food processor. This step is a fantastic way to get a head start, as the sauce benefits from a little time in the fridge for the flavors to meld.

STEP 2: Blend and Chill the Sauce. Process the sauce ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. It should have a thick, pourable consistency. Once blended, transfer the sauce into an airtight container, such as a jar, or for easy drizzling, a squeeze bottle. Refrigerate the sauce until you are ready to assemble your tacos. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and enhances its refreshing quality.

STEP 3: Cook the Ground Pork. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground pork to the hot skillet. Using a spoon or spatula, break up the pork into small, even pieces as it cooks. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pork is thoroughly browned and cooked all the way through, with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to ensure your filling isn’t greasy.

STEP 4: Create the Sweet & Savory Pork Sauce. To the cooked and drained ground pork, add the brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced fresh ginger, and minced fresh garlic. Stir all these ingredients thoroughly to combine them with the pork. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes over medium heat. This cooking time is crucial as it allows the sauce to thicken beautifully and coat the pork, creating that irresistible sticky, sweet-and-savory glaze that defines these Hawaiian Tacos.

STEP 5: Prepare the Fresh Pineapple Mango Salsa. In a separate mixing bowl, combine all the diced ingredients for the salsa: fresh pineapple, mango, avocado, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and diced jalapeño. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice. Gently stir everything together until well combined. Take a moment to taste the salsa and add salt as needed to enhance all the fresh flavors. This salsa is best when made fresh, but can also be prepared slightly ahead of time.

STEP 6: Assemble and Serve Your Tacos. Warm your tortillas according to your preference (see tips below for methods). Once warmed, spoon a generous portion of the saucy ground pork mixture into the center of each tortilla. Next, add a spoonful or two of the vibrant pineapple mango salsa over the pork. Finally, take your chilled cilantro lime sauce and generously drizzle it over the top of each taco. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade tropical taco night!

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Hawaiian Tacos

Achieving taco perfection is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your Hawaiian Tacos are nothing short of spectacular:

• Consistent Dice for Salsa: For the best eating experience, make sure to dice your pineapple, mango, and avocado into relatively small, uniform pieces. This not only makes the salsa easier to scoop and eat without falling out of the tortilla but also ensures that you get a balanced mix of flavors in every bite.
• Warm Your Tortillas Properly: Cold tortillas can be stiff and prone to tearing. Always warm your tortillas before assembling. You have several options:
  • Gas Stove: Quickly char them directly over a gas flame for about 10-15 seconds per side until slightly pliable and a little toasted.
  • Skillet: Heat them in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side.
  • Microwave: Wrap a stack of 5-6 tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds.
  • Oven: Wrap a stack in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

  Warm tortillas are more flexible and delicious!

• Make Ahead for Convenience: Both the pineapple mango salsa and the cilantro lime sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This significantly cuts down on prep time when you’re ready to serve. You can even cook the ground pork mixture a day ahead and simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before assembling.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your salsa and pork filling before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. Flavors can change as they sit, and a final adjustment ensures optimal taste.
• Choosing Ripe Fruit: For the best salsa, ensure your pineapple and mango are ripe. A ripe pineapple will smell sweet at its base, and a ripe mango will yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma near the stem.
• Don’t Overcook the Pork: While you want the pork fully cooked, be careful not to overcook it, as this can make it dry. Once browned and the sauce has thickened, it’s ready.

Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings

While these Hawaiian Tacos are a complete and satisfying meal on their own, pairing them with a few simple sides can elevate your dining experience. Think light, refreshing complements that enhance the tropical vibe.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would be an excellent accompaniment, offering a fresh contrast to the rich taco fillings.
• Black Beans and Rice: For a more substantial meal, a side of fluffy white rice and seasoned black beans fits perfectly with the Latin-inspired elements of the tacos.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred grilled corn, perhaps with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime juice, would add a smoky sweetness.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A side of crispy sweet potato fries can offer a delightful sweet and savory balance.
• Beverage Pairings: For drinks, consider a refreshing agua fresca (like watermelon or pineapple), a crisp lager, or a tropical cocktail such as a mai tai or a simple rum punch to lean into the Hawaiian theme.

Variations & Customizations: Make It Your Own

One of the joys of tacos is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with these Hawaiian Tacos to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• Protein Swap: If pork isn’t your preference, ground chicken, ground turkey, or even firm tofu (crumbled and seasoned similarly) would work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, consider seasoned black beans or crumbled plant-based meat substitutes.
• Spice Level Adjustment: For more heat, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in the salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork sauce. For less heat, omit the jalapeño entirely.
• Different Salsas: While the pineapple mango salsa is fantastic, feel free to try other fruit-based salsas, such as a simple peach salsa or a corn and black bean salsa.
• Add Veggies to Pork: Sauté some diced bell peppers or onions with the pork for added vegetable content and flavor.
• Cheese Please: While not traditional for this style, a sprinkle of cotija cheese or a mild Monterey Jack would add a delicious salty, creamy element.

Storage and Meal Prep for Busy Weeks

These Hawaiian Tacos are fantastic as leftovers, making them perfect for meal prepping. To keep everything fresh and flavorful, it’s best to store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pork mixture, salsa, and cilantro lime sauce can all be stored for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the pork on the stovetop or in the microwave, warm your tortillas, and then assemble with the fresh salsa and sauce. This allows each element to retain its distinct texture and flavor until you’re ready to create another delicious taco!

More Recipes with a Hawaiian Twist You’ll Adore

If you’ve fallen in love with the tropical flair of these tacos, you’ll definitely want to try these other Hawaiian-inspired delights:

• Hawaiian Hot Dogs: A fun and flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for barbecues.
• Tropical Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Light, refreshing, and packed with island flavors.
• Hawaiian Sloppy Joes: A sweet and savory comfort food with an exotic touch.

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Hawaiian Tacos

4.50 from 2 votes

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
30 minutes

Servings:
6 servings

Course:
Main Dish

Cuisine:
American

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Take a trip to Hawaii for taco night with these easy Hawaiian Tacos! Ground pork is combined with a sweet and savory sauce, and then served in tortillas with a pineapple mango salsa and topped with homemade cilantro lime sauce.

Ingredients

Cilantro Lime Sauce

• 1/2 cup lightly packed cilantro
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Pineapple Mango Salsa

• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1 mango diced
• 1 avocado diced
• 1/2 cup cilantro chopped
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeno diced
• Juice from 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Tacos

• 1 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 12 Flour or corn tortillas for serving

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Process until smooth. Transfer to a bottle or bowl, then refrigerate until needed.

   Ingredients used: 1/2 cup lightly packed cilantro, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, Salt and pepper.

2. In a bowl, combine the pineapple, mango, avocado, cilantro, onion, jalapeno, and lime juice. Taste and add salt as needed.

   Ingredients used: 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1 mango, 1 avocado, 1/2 cup cilantro, 1/4 cup diced red onion, 1 jalapeno, Juice from 1 lime, Salt.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the pork. Cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until the pork is cooked through.

   Ingredients used: 1 1/2 lb ground pork.

4. Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir to combine, and let it cook down for a few minutes to thicken up the sauce.

   Ingredients used: 1/4 cup light brown sugar, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 3 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon minced ginger, 1 clove garlic.

5. To serve, heat the tortillas. Add some of the pork to each tortilla, then top with the salsa and drizzle with the sauce. Serve immediately.

   Ingredients used: 12 Flour or corn tortillas.

Recipe Notes:

You want to make sure you dice the pineapple, mango, and avocado approximately the same size. I keep the chunks fairly small.

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. Nutrition information is calculated using flour tortillas.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 2 tacos,
Calories: 734 kcal (37%),
Carbohydrates: 58 g (19%),
Protein: 37 g (74%),
Fat: 40 g (62%),
Saturated Fat: 13 g (81%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7 g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 16 g,
Trans Fat: 0 g,
Cholesterol: 116 mg (39%),
Sodium: 1265 mg (55%),
Potassium: 825 mg (24%),
Fiber: 7 g (29%),
Sugar: 22 g (24%)

Keywords:
hawaiian tacos, taco recipe, tropical tacos, ground pork tacos, pineapple mango salsa, cilantro lime sauce