Hawaiian Style Shoyu Pumpkin and Pork

Pumpkin season is here, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with this Hawaiian-style Shoyu Pumpkin and Pork recipe. Inspired by local island flavors, this dish blends savory soy sauce, sweet Hawaiian honey, and tender kabocha pumpkin for a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with hot rice.

Whether you’re using Japanese kabocha or a traditional pumpkin, this dish delivers umami-packed goodness in every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Savory-Sweet Perfection – Balanced with soy sauce, honey, and tender pork
Hawaiian-Inspired Flavors – A taste of the islands in every bite
Easy & Quick – Ready in just 45 minutes
Perfect for Fall & Winter – A warm and comforting meal

Quick Prep & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
  
• Total Time: 45 minutes
  
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 lb pork, cubed
1 lb pumpkin (or kabocha squash), cubed
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
⅓ cup Aloha Shoyu (soy sauce)
2 tbsp Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry)
2 tbsp Hawaiian Honey (adjust based on pumpkin sweetness)
1¼ cups chicken stock
2 tbsp dried shrimp

Optional Add-ins for More Flavor:

1 tsp ginger, minced – Adds extra warmth
½ tsp chili flakes – For a spicy kick
1 tbsp oyster sauce – Deepens the umami flavor

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pumpkin

• Wash the pumpkin or kabocha and microwave it for 1-2 minutes to soften.
  
• Slice it in half, remove the seeds and skin, and cut it into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

• Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium-high heat.
  
• Add cubed pork and brown it on all sides.
  
• Stir in Shaoxing wine and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

• Add dried shrimp, shoyu (soy sauce), honey, and chicken stock.
  
• Bring the mixture to a boil to infuse the flavors.

Step 4: Simmer & Tenderize

• Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the pumpkin is fork-tender but not mushy.
  
• Taste and adjust sweetness with more honey, if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Serve hot with steamed rice, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Shoyu Pumpkin and Pork

Steamed White or Brown Rice – A classic pairing
Sautéed Bok Choy or Choy Sum – Light and refreshing
Pickled Daikon or Kimchi – Adds a tangy crunch
Side of Chili Sauce – For extra heat

Get Your FREE Hawaiian Recipe eBook

Love Hawaiian comfort food? Bring the flavors of the islands to your kitchen with our FREE Hawaiian Recipe eBook. Packed with authentic island dishes, secret sauces, and must-try local favorites, this exclusive collection is perfect for food lovers.