Asian BBQ Maui Style Beef

This Asian BBQ Maui Style Beef transforms ordinary beef short ribs into a flavor explosion with a smooth, sweet-savory marinade. The pineapple juice tenderizes the meat while the kiwi, soy sauce, and ginger create that unmistakable island-inspired taste profile that makes this dish utterly irresistible when grilled to perfection.

I discovered this recipe during a tropical vacation to Hawaii and have been perfecting it for years. The combination of sweet fruit with savory soy creates that authentic Maui BBQ experience that transports me back to oceanside dinners every time I make it.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless beef short ribs: The key to this recipe is choosing well marbled boneless short ribs cut into thin strips about half inch thick
• 1 kiwi: This natural meat tenderizer breaks down proteins for incredibly tender beef
• 2 stalks green onion: Adds subtle aromatic flavor without overpowering the marinade
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice: Classic Hawaiian tenderizer that adds sweetness and acidity
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Look for low sodium varieties to control the salt level
• 3 tbsp brown sugar: Creates beautiful caramelization when grilled
• 2 tbsp sesame oil: Adds nutty depth that completes the Asian flavor profile
• 2 tbsp garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides essential aromatic base
• 1 inch ginger: Fresh ginger adds spicy warmth and authentic Asian character

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blend the Marinade:

Place kiwi, green onions, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic and ginger in a blender. Process until completely smooth for about 30 seconds. This ensures all the tenderizing enzymes from the kiwi and pineapple are fully released into the marinade.

Prepare the Beef:

Cut boneless beef short ribs into strips approximately half inch thick. The uniform thickness ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Place the beef strips into a large ziplock bag or container that can be sealed tightly.

Marinate:

Pour the blended marinade over the beef, making sure all pieces are fully coated. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination yields the most tender and flavorful results. The enzymes in the kiwi and pineapple need time to work their magic.

Cook Method 1 Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange beef strips in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip each piece and cook another 5 minutes until you achieve a beautiful char on the outside while maintaining juicy tenderness inside.

Cook Method 2 Pan Fry:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat until very hot. Arrange beef strips in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for 5 minutes on each side until you get a deep caramelized exterior and the meat reaches desired doneness.

Cook Method 3 Grill BBQ:

Preheat your grill to high heat around 450°F. Place beef strips directly on the grates and grill for approximately 5 minutes per side until you achieve beautiful grill marks and the desired level of doneness.

Pin it

The kiwi in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its tenderizing power by accident when experimenting with different fruit marinades. Now I keep kiwis on hand specifically for meat marinades because they work even better than pineapple without making the meat mushy if marinated too long.

Selecting the Perfect Beef

The success of this recipe heavily depends on your beef selection. Boneless short ribs offer the perfect balance of marbling and tenderness. When shopping, look for pieces with good fat distribution throughout the meat, which will result in juicier, more flavorful finished dish. If you cannot find boneless short ribs, ribeye sliced thinly works as an excellent though more expensive alternative. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin which can become tough with the high heat cooking methods this recipe calls for.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe excels as a make ahead option. You can prepare the marinade up to three days before using, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The beef can marinate for up to 24 hours without becoming mushy thanks to the balanced acid levels. Once cooked, leftovers store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results when reheating, bring the meat to room temperature first, then briefly heat in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture. The flavor actually deepens overnight, making this perfect for meal prep.

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

Transform this Asian BBQ beef into a complete meal with complementary sides that enhance its flavors. Serve over steamed jasmine rice that will absorb the delicious sauce, or wrap in butter lettuce leaves for a lighter option. A simple cucumber and radish quick pickle provides refreshing contrast to the rich meat. For authentic Hawaiian plate lunch style, add a scoop of macaroni salad on the side. Garnish with additional sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime to brighten the rich flavors.

Cultural Context

This recipe represents the beautiful fusion cooking that defines modern Hawaiian cuisine. The combination of Asian ingredients with grilling techniques demonstrates the multicultural influences that have shaped Maui style barbecue. Traditional Hawaiian cooking often incorporated pineapple as both tenderizer and sweetener, while the soy sauce, sesame oil and ginger represent the strong Japanese and Korean influences on the islands. This dish honors that heritage while remaining approachable for home cooks. In Hawaii, similar dishes would be served at family gatherings or roadside stands, often with sticky rice and macaroni salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should you marinate the beef?

For best results, marinate the beef for at least 2 hours, but overnight is highly recommended for maximum flavor.

→ What cut of beef works best?

Boneless beef short ribs cut into thin, 1/2-inch strips are ideal. Alternatively, you can use a traditional Korean-cut short rib.

→ Can this be cooked without a grill?

Yes, you can use an air fryer or a pan on medium-high heat to cook the beef for about 5 minutes on each side until charred.

→ What makes the marinade unique?

The marinade combines sweet pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of kiwi, creating tropical and savory flavors.

→ How do you prevent overcrowding during cooking?

Cook the beef in small batches to avoid steaming. This allows for a good sear and proper caramelization.