Spam musubi is a Hawaiian staple, beloved for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. But venture beyond this iconic snack, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of delicious and unique treats that truly represent the diverse culinary landscape of the islands. This article delves into the lesser-known, but equally captivating, world of Hawaiian snack food, offering an insider’s guide to experiencing authentic flavors and cultural gems.
Plate Lunches: More Than Just a Meal
The plate lunch is a cornerstone of Hawaiian cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a social gathering, and a reflection of the islands’ multicultural heritage. Think of it as a complete culinary journey on a single plate, usually featuring two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a main protein. While the concept seems simple, the variations are endless. You can find plate lunches everywhere, from roadside food trucks to established restaurants. For a truly authentic experience, seek out local favorites like Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu, known for their gravy-smothered plate lunches, or Ono Seafood, famous for their poke bowls.
Consider trying the classic Hawaiian Plate Lunch, which often includes kalua pig (slow-cooked shredded pork), laulau (pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed), and poi (pounded taro root). Another popular choice is the mixed plate, which allows you to sample several different proteins, such as teriyaki beef, chicken katsu (breaded and deep-fried chicken), and mahi-mahi (dolphin fish). The plate lunch is a filling and affordable option, typically costing between $10 and $15, depending on the location and the protein choices. One important tip: don’t be afraid to ask the server for recommendations or to customize your plate. Many places are happy to accommodate special requests.
The macaroni salad deserves special attention. It’s not your typical mayo-laden salad; it’s often sweeter and creamier, a unique blend of elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and sometimes other ingredients like peas, carrots, or even pineapple. Each establishment has its own secret recipe, making it a fun culinary adventure to compare different macaroni salads from various vendors. Beyond the core components, you should also be willing to explore beyond rice based sides. Some offer potato or sweet potato salad too!
Poke: A Symphony of Flavors
Poke (pronounced “poh-kay”) has exploded in popularity in recent years, but it’s been a beloved Hawaiian staple for centuries. Traditionally, it’s made with cubed raw fish (usually ahi, or yellowfin tuna) marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, limu (seaweed), and other seasonings. However, modern poke has evolved to include a wider variety of fish and ingredients, resulting in a dazzling array of flavors and textures. You can find poke bowls at restaurants, supermarkets, and dedicated poke shops. Be aware that if you do not like raw fish, this isn’t for you!
Visit Ono Seafood in Honolulu for a taste of classic Hawaiian poke or explore the creative poke bowls at Fresh Catch, which features unique combinations like spicy ahi with avocado and mango. At grocery stores like Foodland or Safeway, you can find poke by the pound, allowing you to create your own custom poke bowls at home. The price of poke typically ranges from $15 to $25 per pound, depending on the type of fish and the added ingredients. When choosing poke, look for vendors that use fresh, high-quality fish and offer a variety of flavors to suit your palate; and of course, make sure the poke appears fresh!
Some popular poke varieties include: Ahi Poke (yellowfin tuna), Tako Poke (octopus), Salmon Poke, Spicy Ahi Poke, and Avocado Poke. For a more adventurous experience, try poke with ingredients like kimchi, furikake (seaweed seasoning), or even macadamia nuts. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your favorite combination!
Manapua: Steamed Buns of Delight
Manapua, the Hawaiian version of Chinese steamed buns, are another delightful snack that reflects the islands’ cultural fusion. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a variety of savory fillings, most commonly char siu pork (barbecue pork), but also including options like chicken, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like black bean paste. Manapua are readily available at bakeries, convenience stores, and restaurants throughout Hawaii. The cost is generally between $2 and $4 per bun.
Look for manapua wrapped in paper; it helps absorb the moisture. The best manapua have a soft, slightly sweet dough and a generous filling. For a taste of traditional manapua made with classic char siu pork, hunt down the vendors that are very popular among the local clientele. Check with the local residents for suggestions!
Keep an eye out for variations like baked manapua, which has a slightly crispier exterior. Manapua is the perfect on-the-go snack or a satisfying addition to a light meal. The fluffy texture and savory filling make it a comforting and delicious treat.
Haupia: Coconut Cream Perfection
Haupia (pronounced “how-pee-ah”) is a traditional Hawaiian coconut cream dessert that’s both refreshing and decadent. It’s traditionally made with coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, resulting in a smooth, creamy pudding-like texture. Haupia can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in other desserts. It’s a popular dessert at luaus and Hawaiian celebrations.
Haupia is often served in square or rectangular portions, sometimes topped with toasted coconut or a sprinkle of sugar. For a taste of authentic haupia, try it at a local luau or at a Hawaiian restaurant. You can also find haupia at bakeries and grocery stores. Prices vary depending on the size and location, but you can expect to pay around $3 to $6 for a slice or portion. If you like chocolate, research Chocolate Haupia Pie!
Some popular variations include haupia pie, which is a creamy haupia filling baked in a pastry crust, and haupia ice cream, which combines the refreshing flavors of haupia with the coolness of ice cream. Haupia is the perfect dessert to cool down on a warm Hawaiian day.
Malasadas: Portuguese Doughnuts with a Hawaiian Twist
Malasadas are Portuguese doughnuts that have become a beloved treat in Hawaii, thanks to Portuguese immigrants who arrived in the islands in the late 19th century. Unlike traditional doughnuts with a hole, malasadas are round and fluffy, and they are deep-fried and coated in sugar. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh, when the dough is still soft and pillowy. Malasadas are commonly found at bakeries, food trucks, and festivals.
Leonard’s Bakery in Honolulu is arguably the most famous place for malasadas in Hawaii. They offer a variety of flavors, including the traditional plain sugar-coated malasada, as well as those filled with custard, chocolate, or haupia cream. The cost is usually around $1 to $2 per malasada (plain), and filled ones may cost around $2 to $4.
When buying malasadas, look for places that make them fresh throughout the day. The aroma of freshly fried dough is a telltale sign of a good malasada vendor. Some malasada shops even offer unique flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit) or guava, which are worth trying for a more Hawaiian twist. Malasadas are the perfect indulgent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Shave Ice: The Ultimate Hawaiian Refresher
Shave ice is a must-try Hawaiian snack, especially on a hot day. It’s made by shaving a block of ice into a fine, fluffy snow-like texture and then flavoring it with colorful syrups. Shave ice is often served in a paper cone or cup and can be topped with various extras like azuki beans, mochi balls, or a scoop of ice cream. The combination of the cold, refreshing ice and the sweet, flavorful syrups is a delightful way to cool down.
There are numerous shave ice shops throughout Hawaii, each offering its own unique flavors and toppings. Matsumoto Shave Ice on the North Shore of Oahu is a legendary destination, known for its wide variety of flavors and its long lines of eager customers. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice on Maui is also highly regarded for its high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
The cost for shave ice typically ranges from $3 to $7, depending on the size and the number of toppings. When ordering, you can choose from a wide array of syrups, including classic flavors like strawberry, pineapple, and mango, as well as more exotic options like lilikoi, guava, and lychee. Be sure to ask about the local specialties or the shop’s signature flavors. For a truly Hawaiian experience, try shave ice with azuki beans and mochi balls at the bottom of the cone. This provides a chewy and slightly sweet contrast to the icy sweetness of the shave ice.
Li Hing Mui: A Salty, Sweet, and Sour Sensation
Li hing mui is a unique and acquired taste, but it’s a truly iconic Hawaiian snack. It’s made from dried plum that has been preserved with salt, sugar, and licorice. The result is a flavor explosion of salty, sweet, and sour notes that can be addictive to some. Li hing mui is available in a variety of forms, including whole plums, powder, and even gummy candies. It’s often used to flavor other snacks and drinks, adding a distinctive Hawaiian twist.
You can find li hing mui at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and souvenir shops throughout Hawaii. The cost is generally inexpensive, ranging from a few dollars for a small bag to around $10 for a larger package. Li hing mui powder is a popular addition to shave ice, adding a salty and sour edge to the sweetness. It’s also used to rim cocktail glasses or to dust fruit slices.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try soaking dried li hing mui plums in water to make a refreshing drink. The salty and sour flavor is surprisingly thirst-quenching. Li hing mui is a polarizing snack; some people love it, while others find it too intense. But it’s definitely worth trying to experience this unique Hawaiian flavor.
Crack Seed: A World of Preserved Delights
Crack seed is a broad category that encompasses a wide variety of preserved fruits and seeds. These snacks are typically sweet, salty, sour, and sometimes spicy. Crack seed is a legacy of Asian immigrants who brought their preservation techniques to Hawaii. The flavors and textures can vary greatly, making crack seed an exciting culinary exploration.
You can find crack seed at specialty stores and some grocery stores throughout Hawaii. The cost varies depending on the type of crack seed, but it’s generally inexpensive. Some popular types of crack seed include: Dried mango, Preserved ginger, Honey seed, Lemon peel, and Salty plum. Some sources trace the early origin of crack seed back to China. In Hawaii there are Crack Seed stores like Kamuyas Crack Seed Store which shows the impact Chinese culture has had on local flavors.
When trying crack seed for the first time, start with a few different varieties to discover your preferences. Some crack seed can be quite intense in flavor, so it’s best to sample small amounts. Crack seed is a great snack to share with friends and family, allowing everyone to experience the diverse and unique flavors of Hawaii.
Hawaiian Sweet Bread: A Soft and Flavorful Treat
Hawaiian sweet bread, also known as Portuguese sweet bread, is a soft, slightly sweet bread that’s a staple in Hawaiian cuisine. It’s made with eggs, milk, and butter, resulting in a rich and tender texture. Hawaiian sweet bread is often enjoyed on its own, but it’s also used for sandwiches, French toast, and other dishes. It’s commonly found at bakeries and grocery stores throughout Hawaii.
King’s Hawaiian is perhaps the most well-known brand of Hawaiian sweet bread, but you can also find delicious homemade versions at local bakeries. The cost is generally inexpensive, ranging from a few dollars for a small loaf to around $5 to $10 for a larger one. Hawaiian sweet bread is perfect for making French toast, as it soaks up the egg mixture beautifully. It’s also a great accompaniment to kalua pig or other Hawaiian dishes.
Try grilling slices of Hawaiian sweet bread and topping them with butter or jam for a simple but delicious treat. The soft and slightly sweet flavor of Hawaiian sweet bread makes it a versatile and comforting snack.
Poi: A Traditional Staple
Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from pounded taro root. It has a smooth, slightly starchy texture and a subtle, earthy flavor. Poi is a staple food in Hawaiian culture, and it’s often served with kalua pig, laulau, and other traditional dishes. Poi is typically found at Hawaiian restaurants and luaus.
The taste of poi can vary depending on the variety of taro used and the fermentation process. Some poi can have a slightly sour taste, while others are more mild. It is said that the texture can be categorized by number—one-finger poi, two-finger poi, and three-finger poi, where the measurement reflects the thickness related to how many fingers you would use to scoop the poi. When trying poi for the first time, it’s best to sample a small amount to see if you like the flavor and texture. It can be an acquired taste for some, but it’s an important part of Hawaiian culinary heritage.
Many Hawaiian restaurants serve poi as part of a traditional plate lunch or luau. Some chefs have also incorporated poi into more modern dishes, such as poi mochi or poi pancakes. Poi is a nutrient-rich food that’s high in carbohydrates and fiber. It’s a great source of energy and a good way to experience traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
Kulolo: Sweet and Chewy Taro Treat
Kulolo is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from grated taro root, coconut milk, and sugar. It has a dense, chewy texture and a sweet, slightly earthy flavor. Kulolo is traditionally baked in an underground oven called an imu, but it can also be baked in a conventional oven. It is often served at luaus and Hawaiian celebrations.
Kulolo can be found at Hawaiian restaurants and bakeries. The cost usually ranges from $3 to $6 for a slice or portion. The best kulolo has a moist, chewy texture and a rich coconut flavor. Be sure to try it warm for the full experience. Some variations include adding ingredients like chocolate or macadamia nuts. Kulolo is the perfect dessert for those who enjoy chewy textures and the unique flavor of taro.
FAQ Section: Your Hawaiian Snack Questions Answered
What is the most popular Hawaiian snack?
While spam musubi is undeniably popular, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Plate lunches, poke, and shave ice are also iconic Hawaiian snacks enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Where can I find authentic Hawaiian food?
Look for local restaurants, plate lunch trucks, and farmer’s markets. Ask the locals for their favorite spots off the beaten path—they often have the best recommendations! Keep a close eye on which eateries the local residents seem to frequent.
Are Hawaiian snacks expensive?
The cost of Hawaiian snacks varies depending on the location and the specific item. Plate lunches and other filling snacks can be relatively affordable, while some specialty desserts or seafood dishes might be more expensive. However, there are options for every budget, from simple manapua to more elaborate luau feasts.
What is the best time to visit Hawaii for food lovers?
Hawaii is great for food-lovers all year! If you’re interested in food festivals, consider planning your trip around events like the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival or local cultural celebrations.
What should I know about Hawaiian food culture?
Hawaiian food culture is rooted in a spirit of aloha (love, compassion, and respect). Meals are often shared family-style, and hospitality is highly valued. Be open to trying new things, and embrace the diverse flavors of the islands!
How much should i tip?
Tipping is customary in sit-down restaurants, similar to the mainland US. A standard tip of 15-20% is appreciated. If you are at a food truck or a hole-in-the-wall establishment, it can be considered nice to tip, but isn’t necessarily always expected.
References List
- Hawaii Food & Wine Festival official website.
- Yelp reviews for various Hawaiian restaurants mentioned.
Beyond the familiar Spam musubi, Hawaii offers a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered. So, skip the tourist traps; get out there and explore. Talk to the locals, visit the hole-in-the-wall eateries, and try something you’ve never heard of before. You might just find your new favorite snack—and a deeper appreciation for the unique culinary landscape of Hawaii. Your taste buds will thank you!
