15 Hawaiian Recipes to Savor the Aloha Spirit

Hawaiian recipes carry a vibrant mix of flavors that reflect the islands’ diverse culture and history. These dishes not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of the tropical island experience to your home.

You can enjoy a variety of meals, from savory to sweet, that are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The ingredients often include fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and hearty meats, making them both nutritious and delicious. With a little creativity, you can recreate these beloved island dishes and explore the unique culinary traditions that Hawaii has to offer.

1) Kalua Pork

Kalua pork is a delicious Hawaiian dish that you can enjoy at home. Traditionally, people make it by roasting a whole pig underground, but you can also cook it in your oven or pressure cooker.

This tender, flavorful pork is perfect for gatherings or family meals. You can serve it with rice, lomi salmon, or macaroni salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon Hawaiian salt (or sea salt)
• 2 teaspoons liquid smoke

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Rub the pork shoulder with salt and liquid smoke.
3. Place the pork in a roasting pan and cover it tightly with foil.
4. Cook for about 6 hours, or until the meat is tender and easy to shred.
5. Remove from the oven and let it rest before shredding. Enjoy!

2) Shoyu Chicken

Shoyu chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian dish that is easy to make. It features tender chicken simmered in a savory soy sauce mixture, giving it a rich taste. This dish often includes garlic and ginger for added depth.

You can serve shoyu chicken with white rice and a side of macaroni salad, which completes the meal nicely. It’s a favorite at many casual restaurants in Hawaii, making it a familiar comfort food.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 cup water
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a pot and pour the sauce over them.
3. Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), stirring occasionally.
4. Serve warm with rice and garnish with green onions if desired.

3) Lomi Lomi Salmon

Lomi Lomi Salmon is a traditional Hawaiian dish that’s simple and refreshing. It combines salted salmon with fresh tomatoes, onions, and green onions. This dish is often enjoyed at luaus or as part of a Hawaiian meal.

To prepare Lomi Lomi Salmon, you will gently massage the ingredients together. The word “lomi” means to rub or press in Hawaiian, which fits the method of mixing. This brings out all the flavors and makes it extra tasty.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound (227 g) salted salmon
• 1 bunch green onions
• 1 sweet onion
• 1 ripe tomato
• Hawaiian salt (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Start by chopping the tomatoes, onions, and green onions.
2. Take the salted salmon and cut it into small pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine the salmon and chopped vegetables.
4. Use your hands to gently massage and mix the ingredients.
5. Serve chilled as a side dish or as part of your meal.

4) Saimin

Saimin is a beloved Hawaiian noodle soup that you will enjoy. It features soft wheat and egg noodles in a savory dashi-based broth. You can customize it with tasty toppings like spam, egg, kamaboko, and green onions.

To make saimin, start by preparing a rich broth. This will serve as a flavorful base for your noodles. You can find various recipes online to help you create your perfect version.

Many local spots in Hawaii serve saimin, making it easy to find this delicious dish. Whether you’re at home or in a restaurant, it’s a comforting meal that captures the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 oz saimin or ramen noodles
• Toppings (spam, egg, kamaboko, green onions)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine water, soy sauce, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Add saimin noodles and cook according to package instructions.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

5) Chicken Long Rice

Chicken Long Rice is a classic Hawaiian dish that’s both delicious and comforting. It features tender chicken, long rice noodles, and a flavorful broth. This dish is perfect for gatherings or family meals.

To make Chicken Long Rice, start with some chicken pieces and cook them in broth flavored with ginger and garlic. The long rice noodles soak up all the savory goodness as they cook together.

This dish is easy to prepare in one pot, making cleanup simple. It’s a great choice when you’re looking for a warm and tasty meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long rice noodles
• 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot, combine chicken and broth.
2. Add garlic and ginger.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer until chicken is cooked.
4. Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
5. Add long rice noodles and cook until tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and top with green onions before serving.

6) Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is a tasty Hawaiian dish that features marinated chicken grilled to perfection. The name “Huli Huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way the chicken is cooked on the grill.

You start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices. This gives the meat a sweet and salty flavor. Grilling the chicken adds a nice caramelized finish.

Serve Huli Huli Chicken with sticky rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. It’s perfect for gatherings or a weekend family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken (thighs or breasts)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 1 hour, up to 8 hours in the fridge.
3. Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C).
4. Grill the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes.
5. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

7) Spam Musubi

Spam Musubi is a beloved snack in Hawaii. It combines sweet and savory flavors with a fun, portable twist. You can find it at many convenience stores, but making it at home is just as easy and rewarding.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need Spam, sushi rice, nori seaweed, and a simple teriyaki sauce. The sticky rice helps hold everything together.

Cooking is straightforward. You’ll prepare the rice and cook the Spam in the teriyaki sauce. Then, layer the rice and Spam on a sheet of nori and wrap it up. Slice it into pieces, and you’re ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 can of Spam
• 2 cups of sushi rice
• 4 sheets of nori seaweed
• Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Slice Spam into blocks and cook in teriyaki sauce over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
3. Place nori on a flat surface.
4. Layer a small amount of rice, then Spam on the nori.
5. Roll it tightly and slice into pieces. Enjoy!

8) Poke Bowls

Poke bowls are a bright and fresh dish from Hawaii. They usually feature diced raw fish, like tuna or salmon, served over rice with tasty toppings. This meal is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

You can customize your poke bowl with various ingredients. Add veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or avocados for extra flavor and crunch. Don’t forget to drizzle some soy sauce or sesame oil on top!

Making a poke bowl is quick and easy. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a healthy meal packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 8 oz sashimi-grade fish (tuna or salmon)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 green onion, chopped
• Optional toppings: cucumbers, avocado, seaweed, sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Dice fish into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger.
4. Toss diced fish in the mixture gently.
5. Serve rice in a bowl, top with fish and toppings.

9) Manapua

Manapua is a delicious Hawaiian treat that has a special place in local cuisine. These steamed buns are filled with savory or sweet fillings, often featuring barbecue pork.

The dough is soft and fluffy, making it a delightful snack or meal option. You can enjoy them fresh or even frozen for later.

To make Manapua, you’ll need a few key ingredients for both the dough and the filling.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• Filling (like char siu or any favorite filling)

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix the flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
2. Slowly add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes.
4. Let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. Prepare your filling of choice.
6. Divide the dough into pieces and fill each with your filling.
7. Shape the buns and place them in a steamer.
8. Steam for about 15 minutes at 212°F (100°C).
9. Enjoy your freshly made Manapua!

10) Luau Stew

Luau stew is a delicious and traditional Hawaiian dish. It’s often made with tender pork, taro leaves, and sometimes coconut milk for a rich flavor. You can enjoy it over rice for a satisfying meal.

To make Luau stew, you will need fresh lūʻau leaves, which are key to this dish. If you can’t find them, spinach can be a substitute. You can also add ingredients like sweet potatoes and other veggies for extra nutrition.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. It’s not only tasty but also filled with cultural significance. Serve it hot and enjoy the flavors of Hawaii.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lūʻau leaves (or spinach)
• 2 lbs pork (shoulder or another cut)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash the lūʻau leaves thoroughly.
2. In a large pot, add the pork and cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil at 400°F (200°C).
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour until the pork is tender.
5. Add chopped onions and lūʻau leaves.
6. Pour in coconut milk if using, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook for another 30 minutes until leaves are tender.

11) Haupia (Coconut Pudding)

Haupia is a delicious Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk. It has a smooth, creamy texture and is often served in small squares. You can enjoy it on its own or as part of other desserts.

To make haupia, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. It’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many diets.

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

1. In a saucepan, mix cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine coconut milk and water.
3. Heat the coconut milk mixture until it simmers.
4. Gradually whisk in the dry mixture.
5. Stir constantly until thickened.
6. Pour into a dish and let it cool in the fridge until set.

12) Loco Moco

Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian dish that combines simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. It usually consists of rice, a hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg on top.

This dish is great for any meal of the day. It’s filling and has a comforting taste that many people enjoy. The rich gravy adds a nice flavor that pairs well with everything on the plate.

Making Loco Moco at home is easy and fun. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, like adding mushrooms or onions to the gravy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 hamburger patty
• 1 egg
• 1 cup brown gravy
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the hamburger patty in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C) until browned.
2. Fry the egg in a separate pan to your liking.
3. Place cooked rice on a plate, top with the hamburger patty, and pour gravy over it.
4. Add the fried egg on top and garnish with green onions if desired. Enjoy!

13) Furikake Snack Mix

Furikake Snack Mix is a delicious treat that combines sweet and salty flavors. It features a mix of different cereals, nuts, and furikake seasoning. This Hawaiian snack is great for sharing at parties or enjoying during movie nights.

To make it, you will need Wheat or Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Honeycombs. You can also add some nuts and pretzels for extra crunch. Drizzle a buttery soy sauce glaze over the mix before baking.

Mix everything on a baking sheet with sides to prevent spills. Bake it at 250°F (120°C) for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help all the flavors soak in together.

Ingredients

• 3 boxes of cereal (Wheat or Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Honeycombs)
• Nuts (your choice)
• Pretzels (optional)
• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup corn syrup
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 cup furikake seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cereals, nuts, and pretzels.
3. In a pot, melt the butter and mix in the soy sauce, corn syrup, and sugar.
4. Pour the mixture over the cereal mix and toss gently.
5. Spread the mix on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

14) Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian macaroni salad is a classic dish that you can easily make at home. It’s creamy, delicious, and pairs well with many meals. This salad usually features elbow macaroni, which gives it a nice texture.

You’ll often find mayonnaise as the main dressing. Many recipes also add in shredded carrots, diced celery, and onions for extra flavor. Some people even like to include a touch of vinegar and sugar for a bit of sweetness.

This dish is perfect for barbecues or luaus. It’s a side that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 carrot, shredded
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup green onion, sliced

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add macaroni, carrot, celery, and green onion. Stir gently to combine.

15) Lychee Coconut Sorbet

Lychee Coconut Sorbet is a delightful tropical treat. Its light and refreshing taste makes it perfect for warm days. The sweet lychee pairs wonderfully with creamy coconut, creating a simple yet satisfying dessert.

You can make this sorbet easily at home. Just blend fresh lychee with coconut milk and a bit of lime juice for added zest. The result is a smooth and creamy sorbet that everyone will enjoy.

For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped young coconut. This adds a nice bite and enhances the tropical flavor. Serve it chilled for the best experience.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh lychee (peeled and pitted)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Optional: chopped young coconut

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend the lychee, coconut milk, sugar, and lime juice in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a container and freeze for about 4 hours.
3. Scoop and serve chilled.
4. Enjoy!