As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, the sweet scent of pineapple and the sound of ukulele music fill the air. Welcome to the islands where the flavors are as vibrant as the hibiscus flowers and the culture is as rich as the history. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering tropical Hawaiian recipes that will transport your taste buds to the Aloha State.
From classic comfort foods like Poi (Taro Root Pudding) and Haupia (Coconut Pudding), to modern twists like Poke Bowl with Ahi Tuna and Garlic Shrimp Scampi Hawaiian Style, we’ve got you covered. So grab a Mai Tai and let’s dive into the world of tropical Hawaiian cuisine!
Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice
Add a tropical twist to your fried rice with this sweet and savory Hawaiian-inspired dish, featuring caramelized pineapple and savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the pineapple chunks and stir-fry until they start to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice with the chicken and pineapple until everything is well combined and heated through.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lomi Lomi Salmon
A classic Hawaiian dish, Lomi Lomi Salmon is a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This traditional Hawaiian dish combines the richness of salmon with the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and brush the marinade all over it.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kalua Pork
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine with this classic Kalua pork recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke (optional)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Wrap the pork in foil, leaving a small opening for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Haupia (Coconut Pudding)
Haupia (Coconut Pudding) Recipe
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch. This creamy pudding is often served at luaus and other celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the cornstarch is dissolved.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the pudding comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: Haupia can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. You can also garnish with toasted coconut flakes and fresh fruit for added flavor and color.
Poi (Taro Root Pudding)
In Hawaiian culture, poi is a traditional staple dish made from taro root. This recipe yields a creamy and delicious pudding-like consistency.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked taro root
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked taro root, water, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and baking soda.
3. Add the dry mixture to the taro mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and whisk constantly over medium heat until the poi thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
A classic Hawaiian dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even a quick weeknight dinner! This macaroni salad is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, with its sweet and tangy flavors, crunch from the vegetables, and creamy pasta.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. macaroni
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced ham
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pineapple, ham, peas and carrots, and green onions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Musubi
A classic Hawaiian snack that combines the savory goodness of Spam with a bed of Japanese rice, all wrapped up in a crispy nori seaweed sheet.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions using 1/2 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar.
2. Slice the Spam into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. Lay a nori seaweed sheet flat on a cutting board or other surface.
4. Place a small amount of cooked rice onto the center of the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a slice of Spam on top of the rice.
6. Fold the nori over the filling, applying gentle pressure to form a compact shape.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for Japanese rice)
Chicken Long Rice
A classic Caribbean dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, Chicken Long Rice is a staple in many households. This recipe yields a deliciously moist chicken dish smothered in a rich long rice sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked rice, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and sauce has thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shoyu Chicken
Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Savor the flavors of Japan with this simple yet delicious Shoyu Chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (shoyu)
- 2 tbsp sake or dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cut green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake or wine, brown sugar, ginger, chicken broth, and water.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garnish with cut green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Garlic Shrimp Scampi Hawaiian Style
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this Garlic Shrimp Scampi Hawaiian Style combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful sauce infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the spice of red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet, leaving the garlic butter sauce behind.
5. Add white wine, chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve shrimp with sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Poke Bowl with Ahi Tuna
A flavorful and refreshing Hawaiian-inspired dish, this Poke Bowl with Ahi Tuna is a perfect combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade ahi tuna, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and green onions.
2. Add the tuna cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the Poke Bowl by placing a scoop of cooked rice on the bottom, followed by a portion of marinated tuna.
5. Top with diced cucumber, carrots, and any additional desired toppings (such as sliced avocado or pickled ginger).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Huli Huli Chicken
Experience the authentic flavors of Hawaiian cuisine with this classic Huli Huli Chicken recipe! This sweet and savory dish is a staple at many luaus and family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp pineapple juice
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the Huli Huli glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Malasadas (Portuguese Donuts)
These sweet, deep-fried treats are a classic Portuguese dessert, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Punch down the dough and use a piping bag or a spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Laulau (Pork Wrapped in Taro Leaves)
Laulau Recipe: Pork Wrapped in Taro Leaves
A traditional Hawaiian dish, laulau is a flavorful and tender pork dish wrapped in taro leaves. This recipe yields 8-10 pieces of laulau.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4-6 large taro leaves
– 1/4 cup li’i (Hawaiian spinach), chopped
– 1/4 cup Hawaiian salted fish (or anchovy paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine pork pieces, li’i, salted fish, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until the pork is coated evenly.
3. Lay a taro leaf flat on a work surface. Place 1/4 cup of the pork mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the leaf over the pork, forming a neat package. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Place the laulau packages seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until the pork is tender and the taro leaves are soft.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Saimin (Hawaiian Noodle Soup)
A comforting and flavorful soup originating from the Hawaiian Islands, saimin is a beloved dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Japanese-style noodles (somen or udon work well)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manapua (Steamed Pork Buns)
Manapua is a popular Hawaiian-style steamed bun filled with tender pork and savory flavors. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delicious buns at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat steamer to high heat.
6. Divide dough into small balls (about 10-12).
7. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
8. Place pork filling in the center of each circle.
9. Fold the dough over the filling and shape into buns.
10. Steam the buns for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls
These soft, fluffy bread rolls are infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the warmth of brown sugar. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Proof yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Add pineapple juice and melted butter; stir to combine.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into rolls.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing and flavorful dish. Grilled mahi-mahi pairs perfectly with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Season mahi-mahi fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve grilled mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Hawaii! This article brings you 18 mouth-watering recipes that will transport your taste buds to the islands. From classic dishes like Lomi Lomi Salmon and Kalua Pork, to modern twists like Poke Bowl with Ahi Tuna and Garlic Shrimp Scampi Hawaiian Style, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making traditional favorites like Haupia (Coconut Pudding) and Poi (Taro Root Pudding), or go bold with Spam Musubi and Huli Huli Chicken. Whatever you choose, get ready to taste the aloha spirit!