Hawaiian cuisine blends flavors from many cultures. It uses fresh local ingredients like pineapple, coconut, and seafood.
Hawaiian recipes often mix sweet and savory tastes in unique ways.
You can enjoy the tastes of Hawaii at home with these 28+ recipes. They range from main dishes to desserts.
Try classic Hawaiian foods or new twists on island favorites. These recipes will bring tropical flavors to your kitchen.
1. Loco Moco
Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian dish that combines simple ingredients for a satisfying meal. You’ll find a bed of white rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and rich brown gravy.
This comfort food originated on the Big Island and has become popular throughout Hawaii.
You can easily make it at home with just a few key components.
For the best results, use Japanese short-grain rice and make your own gravy from scratch.
Some variations include mushrooms or swap the beef patty for other proteins like Spam or tofu.
Loco Moco makes a hearty breakfast or lunch option. It’s a great way to experience a taste of Hawaii without leaving your kitchen.
2. Poke Bowls
Poke bowls are a tasty Hawaiian dish you can make at home. They’re quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 15 minutes.
The main ingredient is usually raw fish, like ahi tuna. You’ll marinate it in a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Add some green onions, ginger, and a touch of honey to boost the flavor. You can also include sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Serve your marinated fish over rice. Then top it with your choice of fresh veggies.
Popular options are cucumber, avocado, and edamame.
Poke bowls are not just delicious – they’re also healthy. They’re packed with protein and fresh ingredients to fuel your day.
3. Kalua Pork
Kalua pork is a classic Hawaiian dish you’ll love. It’s made with pork shoulder that’s cooked until tender and flavorful.
To make it at home, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Rub the pork with salt and liquid smoke. Then cook it low and slow in the oven or a slow cooker.
The result is juicy, pull-apart pork with a smoky taste. Serve it with rice and sides like lomi salmon or poi for a true Hawaiian meal.
You can also use kalua pork in sandwiches, tacos, or bowls. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
4. Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli chicken is a tasty Hawaiian dish you’ll love. It gets its name from the Hawaiian word “huli,” meaning “turn,” because you flip the chicken while cooking.
The magic is in the marinade. You’ll mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and other ingredients for a sweet and savory flavor. Let the chicken soak up these tropical tastes for at least 4 hours.
When it’s time to cook, grill the chicken and baste it with the marinade. Keep turning it to get that perfect golden-brown color.
The result? Juicy chicken with a crispy outside and amazing flavor.
Try this dish for a taste of Hawaii at home. It’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
5. Spam Musubi
Spam musubi is a beloved Hawaiian snack. It combines sliced Spam, rice, and nori seaweed.
To make it, fry Spam slices until crispy. Place a slice on top of a block of rice. Wrap it with a strip of nori seaweed.
Some recipes add a sweet soy glaze to the Spam. Others sprinkle furikake seasoning on the rice for extra flavor.
Spam musubi is portable and filling. You can find it in convenience stores across Hawaii. It’s popular for lunch, picnics, and beach trips.
Try making spam musubi at home for a taste of the islands. It’s a simple way to enjoy this iconic Hawaiian treat.
6. Portuguese Sausage
Portuguese sausage is a beloved staple in Hawaiian cuisine. This flavorful pork sausage is often served with rice and eggs for breakfast.
You can make Portuguese sausage at home using ground pork, garlic, paprika, salt, and coriander. Mix the ingredients well and form into sausage shapes.
To cook, slice the sausage into rounds and fry until browned. Serve with white rice and eggs for a classic Hawaiian breakfast plate.
Portuguese sausage also works great in other dishes. Try adding it to fried rice or using it as a pizza topping for a local Hawaiian twist.
7. Mochiko Chicken
Mochiko chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish you’ll love. It’s made with chicken coated in sweet rice flour, called mochiko.
To make it, you’ll marinate chicken pieces in a mix of mochiko, soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. Let it sit for at least 4 hours or overnight.
When ready to cook, fry the marinated chicken until golden and crispy. The mochiko creates a unique, slightly chewy texture.
You can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Serve your mochiko chicken as part of a plate lunch or as a tasty snack.
8. Haupia
Haupia is a beloved Hawaiian coconut pudding dessert. You’ll find it at luaus, weddings, and special events across the islands.
To make haupia, you mix coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook the ingredients while whisking until thick. Then pour into a pan and chill until set.
The result is a smooth, creamy pudding with a rich coconut flavor. It’s often cut into squares or slices for serving.
You can enjoy haupia on its own or as part of other desserts. Some bakeries use it as a cake filling or topping.
Try making this simple Hawaiian treat at home. With just a few ingredients, you can bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen.
9. Malasadas
Malasadas are delicious Portuguese-Hawaiian doughnuts that you’ll love. These sweet treats came to Hawaii with Portuguese immigrants in the late 1800s.
Malasadas are fried dough balls coated in sugar. They have a crispy outside and fluffy inside. You can eat them plain or filled with custard or haupia (coconut pudding).
To make malasadas, you’ll mix yeast, flour, eggs, butter, and sugar. Let the dough rise, then shape it into balls. Fry the dough until golden brown and roll in sugar while hot.
Try making these tasty doughnuts at home for a taste of Hawaii. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack any time of day.
10. Chicken Long Rice
Chicken long rice is a beloved Hawaiian comfort food. You’ll find this dish at luaus, parties, and potlucks across the islands.
The main ingredients are chicken, long rice noodles (bean thread noodles), ginger, and chicken broth. Some recipes add garlic for extra flavor.
To make it, soak the noodles in warm water until soft. Cook chicken thighs in a pot with water. Add ginger and broth, then simmer until the chicken is done.
Shred the chicken and return it to the pot with the softened noodles. The final texture can be soupy or slightly drier, depending on your preference.
You can customize this simple dish by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
11. Poi
Poi is a classic Hawaiian dish made from taro root. You’ll find it at many traditional luaus and local gatherings.
To make poi, you steam taro until soft and then mash it into a smooth paste.
The consistency of poi can vary from thick to thin. You can adjust it by adding water as needed. Fresh poi has a mild, slightly sweet taste. As it ferments over a few days, it develops a tangier flavor.
Poi is often eaten as a side dish or used as a dip. It pairs well with other Hawaiian foods like kalua pork or lomi lomi salmon.
You can also try it as a spread on sandwiches or as a base for smoothies.
12. Laulau
Laulau is a classic Hawaiian dish you’ll love. It’s made by wrapping pork and fish in taro leaves. The bundle is then wrapped again in ti leaves.
You steam the laulau until the meat is tender. This cooking method keeps all the flavors locked in. The result is a moist, tasty meal.
Pork shoulder or belly are common choices for the meat. Salted butterfish is often used for the fish component. You can also add chicken if you like.
Laulau is usually served with rice and poi. It’s a filling and nutritious meal that’s perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
13. Chili Peppah Water
Chili peppah water is a spicy Hawaiian condiment. You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients.
To prepare chili peppah water, you’ll need Hawaiian chili peppers, garlic, white vinegar, water, and Hawaiian salt. Some recipes add a dash of soy sauce for extra flavor.
Chop the chili peppers and garlic. Mix them with the vinegar, water, and salt in a glass jar. Let the mixture sit to allow the flavors to combine.
You can adjust the heat level by changing the number of chili peppers. Start with a small amount if you’re unsure about your spice tolerance.
Use chili peppah water as a condiment for many Hawaiian dishes. It adds a kick to meats, fish, and vegetables.
14. Manapua
Manapua is a beloved Hawaiian snack with Chinese roots. These steamed buns are filled with savory char siu pork and have a soft, fluffy texture.
You can find manapua at many convenience stores and food shops across Hawaii. They’re perfect for a quick bite on the go.
To make manapua at home, you’ll need flour, yeast, sugar, and water for the dough. The filling typically contains diced char siu pork mixed with sauces and spices.
Once assembled, the buns are steamed until they puff up and become light and airy. Some variations are baked instead of steamed.
Try making manapua for a taste of Hawaii in your own kitchen. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
15. Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian macaroni salad is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for barbecues and luaus. This simple recipe features soft-cooked elbow macaroni mixed with a rich dressing.
To make it, cook the pasta until very tender. Whisk together mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, and sugar for the dressing. Add finely grated carrots and onions for extra flavor and crunch.
Gently mix the cooled pasta with the dressing and vegetables.
Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce.
Pair your macaroni salad with grilled meats or other Hawaiian favorites like kalua pork. It’s a tasty addition to any plate lunch or backyard gathering.
16. Taro Chips
Taro chips are a tasty Hawaiian snack you can make at home. To prepare them, slice taro root very thinly. You can use a mandoline or sharp knife for even cuts.
Toss the slices in a little oil and sprinkle with salt. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake the chips at 450°F for about 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
For a different flavor, try sprinkling garlic salt on the chips before baking. You can also fry the taro slices in hot oil until crisp if you prefer.
Taro chips are a healthier alternative to potato chips. They’re high in fiber and have a unique, nutty taste you’ll love.
17. Ono Grilled Fish
Ono, also known as wahoo, is a tasty Hawaiian fish perfect for grilling.
To prepare it, marinate ono fillets in a mix of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated fish on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Ono has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with grilled vegetables. Serve your grilled ono with a side of pineapple salsa for a truly tropical meal.
This dish is both healthy and delicious, making it a great choice for your next backyard barbecue.
18. Saimin
Saimin is Hawaii’s beloved noodle soup dish. It features wheat and egg noodles in a dashi-based broth.
The soup is light and refreshing. You’ll find many tasty toppings in saimin.
Common additions include spam, eggs, kamaboko (fish cake), and green onions. Saimin has roots in Hawaii’s plantation era.
It blends influences from Japanese and Chinese cuisines. The broth often includes chicken or pork, with dashi or dried shrimp for extra flavor.
To enjoy saimin like a local, slurp the noodles! This shows your appreciation for the dish. Saimin is perfect for warming up on a cool day or satisfying your hunger any time.
19. Lomi Lomi Salmon
Lomi lomi salmon is a tasty Hawaiian side dish you’ll love. It’s made with salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions.
The name comes from the Hawaiian word “lomi,” which means to rub or massage. To make lomi lomi salmon, you’ll need to salt the fish first. Then mix it with the other ingredients.
The result is a refreshing, colorful dish that’s perfect for luaus or plate lunches. You can serve lomi lomi salmon chilled. It goes well with other Hawaiian foods like poi or kalua pork.
When making it at home, be sure to use high-quality salmon for safety. Don’t leave it out at room temperature for too long.
20. Haupia Pie
Haupia pie is a beloved Hawaiian dessert that combines creamy coconut pudding with a flaky crust. You’ll love its tropical flavors and smooth texture. To make haupia pie, start with a graham cracker or traditional pie crust.
The filling uses coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch to create a thick, silky pudding. Some versions add a chocolate layer for extra indulgence.
Simply mix cocoa powder into half of the coconut mixture before layering in the pie shell. Let the pie chill until set, then top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.
For a twist, try adding fresh fruit like pineapple or mango. Haupia pie is perfect for luaus, potlucks, or anytime you want a taste of the islands.
It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
21. Coconut Shrimp
Coconut shrimp is a popular Hawaiian appetizer that’s crispy, sweet, and delicious. You’ll love this tropical twist on fried shrimp. To make coconut shrimp, you’ll need large shrimp, flour, eggs, unsweetened coconut flakes, and panko breadcrumbs.
Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Dip each shrimp in flour, then beaten egg, and finally coat with a mixture of coconut and panko.
Fry the shrimp in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Serve your coconut shrimp with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or a pineapple-based sauce.
It’s a perfect appetizer for parties or as part of a Hawaiian-themed meal.
22. Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a sweet treat that brings a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen. You’ll love the mix of caramelized pineapple and moist cake. To make this dessert, start by melting butter and brown sugar in a pan.
Arrange pineapple slices on top, then add cherries in the center of each ring. Pour cake batter over the fruit and bake until golden.
When it’s done, flip the cake onto a plate so the pineapple is on top. This cake is perfect for parties or family dinners.
You can add a tropical twist by using coconut in the batter or sprinkling nuts between the pineapple slices.
23. Shave Ice
Shave ice is a beloved Hawaiian treat perfect for cooling off on a hot day. To make it at home, you’ll need finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. Start by shaving ice into a fluffy snow-like consistency using a special machine or blender.
Mold the ice into a dome shape in a cup or bowl. Pour your favorite fruit syrups over the ice.
Popular flavors include strawberry, pineapple, and blue raspberry. You can use store-bought syrups or make your own by simmering sugar and water with fruit. For an extra treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom of your cup before adding the shaved ice.
This creates a creamy surprise as you enjoy your icy dessert.
24. Butter Mochi
Butter mochi is a beloved Hawaiian treat that combines the best of both worlds – chewy mochi texture and rich buttery flavor. You’ll love this easy-to-make dessert that’s unique to Hawaii. To make butter mochi, you’ll need mochiko sweet rice flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, and melted butter.
Mix these ingredients together and bake until golden brown. The result is a dense, chewy square with a slightly crispy exterior.
As it cools, the texture becomes even more delightful. You can customize your butter mochi by adding shredded coconut on top or adjusting the sweetness to your liking.
It’s a perfect treat to share with friends and family.
25. Guava Cake
Guava cake is a beloved Hawaiian dessert that combines sweet and tangy flavors. You can make it using a strawberry cake mix and guava nectar for a quick version. The cake is typically topped with a creamy layer made from cream cheese.
This adds richness and balances the fruity taste. A bright pink guava gel glaze covers the top, giving the cake its signature look.
The gel also adds more guava flavor and a nice shine. You can find this treat at many bakeries and restaurants in Hawaii.
It’s popular for special occasions and gatherings. Try making guava cake at home for a taste of the islands.
It’s an easy way to bring some Hawaiian flavor to your next dessert.
26. Ahi Tuna Tacos
Ahi tuna tacos are a tasty Hawaiian twist on a classic dish. You can make these at home in about 20 minutes. Start by seasoning ahi tuna steaks with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning.
Sear the tuna quickly over high heat for about a minute on each side. This keeps it tender and flavorful. Slice the tuna thinly after cooking. For toppings, try shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, and thinly sliced jalapeños.
A spicy sriracha mayo adds a nice kick. You can also make a tangy cilantro lime slaw to complement the fish. Serve the seared ahi and toppings in soft taco shells. These tacos are great for a quick meal or for entertaining friends.
27. Aloha Burgers
Aloha burgers bring a taste of Hawaii to your backyard barbecue. These juicy treats combine savory beef patties with tropical flavors. To make them, start by marinating your burger patties in teriyaki sauce.
This adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meat. Grill the burgers to your desired doneness. While they cook, grill some pineapple slices and onions until caramelized.
Top your burgers with the grilled pineapple, onions, and a slice of cheese. Serve on toasted buns with lettuce and tomato.
For extra Hawaiian flair, spread some mayonnaise mixed with teriyaki sauce on the buns. You can also add bacon for more crunch and flavor.
28. Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Hawaiian sweet rolls are a popular bread choice for many meals and snacks. These soft, fluffy buns have a slightly sweet flavor that comes from pineapple juice in the dough. You can buy them at most grocery stores or make them at home.
They’re great for sliders, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Try using Hawaiian rolls to make mini ham and cheese sandwiches.
Slice the rolls in half, add ham and cheese, then bake until warm and melty. For a sweet treat, turn them into cinnamon rolls.
Spread cinnamon-sugar butter inside, roll up, slice, and bake. Top with a simple glaze for extra sweetness.
Essential Ingredients for Hawaiian Cooking
Hawaiian cooking blends flavors from many cultures. Key ingredients bring the unique tastes of the islands to life. Let’s look at some must-have items for your Hawaiian kitchen.
Traditional Staples
Poi is a classic Hawaiian food made from taro root. It’s a smooth, purple paste eaten as a side dish. Taro gives poi its signature flavor and color. Rice is another staple.
Hawaiians often use short-grain white rice. It’s sticky and perfect for soaking up sauces. Spam might surprise you, but it’s very popular in Hawaii.
You’ll find it in many dishes, like Spam musubi. Macadamia nuts add crunch to desserts and savory dishes. Though not native to Hawaii, they’re now a big part of the cuisine.
Sea salt is key for seasoning. Hawaiians call it pa’akai. It brings out flavors in fish, meat, and vegetables.
Fresh Produce
Pineapple is a symbol of Hawaiian food. It’s sweet and tangy, great in both savory and sweet recipes. Coconut gives a tropical taste to many dishes.
Use the meat, milk, and water in your cooking. Mangoes are juicy and flavorful. They’re perfect for salsas, smoothies, and desserts.
Breadfruit, or ‘ulu, is starchy like a potato. You can bake, fry, or mash it. Lilikoi (passion fruit) has a tart flavor.
It’s great in drinks, sauces, and baked goods. Bananas grow well in Hawaii. Use them in breads, puddings, or just eat them fresh.
Cooking Techniques Unique to Hawaii
Hawaiian cuisine features special cooking methods that give dishes their unique flavors and textures. These techniques blend traditional practices with modern twists.
Poke Preparation
Poke is a raw fish dish that’s popular in Hawaii. To make poke, you cut fresh fish into cubes. Common fish choices are ahi tuna or salmon. You mix the fish with salt, seaweed, and nuts. Some key steps in poke prep:
- Choose very fresh, sushi-grade fish
- Cut fish into 1-inch cubes
- Add Hawaiian sea salt
- Mix in chopped onions and seaweed
- Drizzle with sesame oil
Let the poke chill for at least 2 hours before eating. This lets the flavors blend. Serve poke over rice or by itself as a snack.
Kalua Pig Cooking
Kalua pig is a smoky, tender meat dish. It’s often the star of Hawaiian luaus.
The traditional method uses an underground oven called an imu.
To cook kalua pig:
- Dig a pit in the ground
- Line it with rocks and wood
- Start a fire to heat the rocks
- Wrap a whole pig in ti or banana leaves
- Place the pig in the pit
- Cover with dirt and let cook for hours
The result is moist, flavorful pork.
Modern versions use ovens or slow cookers. They add liquid smoke to mimic the imu flavor.
You can shred the meat and serve it with cabbage and rice.