Are you ready to take a culinary trip to the Aloha State? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the bold flavors and tropical charm of Hawaiian cuisine. From classic dishes like Kalua pork and poke bowls, to sweet treats like haupia coconut pudding and banana bread with macadamia nuts, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a diverse array of recipes that blend traditional Hawaiian ingredients with modern twists and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your cooking journey, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So grab your apron, fire up the grill (or oven), and get ready to experience the authentic flavors of Hawaii like never before.
Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the islands with these sweet and savory chicken skewers, marinated in a classic Hawaiian teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
• Fresh pineapple wedges and kiwi slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve with fresh pineapple wedges and kiwi slices (if using). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Kalua Pork with Cabbage
A classic Hawaiian dish, Kalua pork is slow-cooked in an underground oven, or imu, until it’s tender and flavorful. Here’s a simplified recipe to bring this traditional dish into your home.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup sea salt
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 tablespoons liquid smoke (optional)
– 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Mix sea salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover every surface.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Add liquid smoke (if using) and pour enough water to cover the pork by about an inch.
6. Cover the pot and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for 30 minutes.
8. Sauté cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce in a pan until caramelized.
9. Serve the Kalua pork with the sautéed cabbage and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours.
Classic Hawaiian Poke Bowl with Ahi Tuna
This recipe is a modern twist on the traditional Hawaiian dish, poke. Fresh ahi tuna is marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, then served over a bed of fluffy Japanese rice and mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade ahi tuna
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp chopped green onions
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger.
2. Add the ahi tuna to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
4. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice in the bottom, followed by a portion of the marinated tuna.
5. Top with mixed greens and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with Creamy Dressing
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Summary: A classic Hawaiian-inspired pasta salad recipe featuring macaroni, vegetables, and a creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz macaroni
• 1 cup frozen pineapple, thawed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the vegetable mixture and pour in the creamy dressing. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time)
Sweet and Tangy Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice
Sweet and Tangy Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
This tropical fried rice dish combines the flavors of Hawaii with a sweet and tangy twist, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, green onions, and red bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is well coated with oil and slightly toasted.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the rice and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced pineapple to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the fruit is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Garlic Butter Shrimp
Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this mouthwatering shrimp dish, infused with aromatic garlic butter and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lomi Lomi Salmon with Tomatoes and Onions
A classic Hawaiian dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this Lomi Lomi salmon recipe combines the richness of salted fish with the sweetness of tomatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salted salmon (fresh or canned), flaked
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, and minced garlic.
2. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture and toss until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this dish is a marinade-based recipe that requires no cooking time.
Hawaiian Haupia Coconut Pudding
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made with coconut milk, sugar, and taro root. This creamy pudding is a popular treat at luaus and other celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded coconut, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cornstarch mixture (see below).
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To make the cornstarch mixture, combine 2 tablespoons water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then add to the pudding mixture in step 4.
Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the freshness of pineapple with the richness of grilled mahi-mahi, creating a flavorful and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
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
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season mahi-mahi fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill mahi-mahi for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve grilled mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Spam Musubi
A classic Hawaiian snack that’s easy to make and oh-so-delicious! This recipe brings together the savory flavors of Spam, sushi rice, and nori seaweed for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (Japanese cooking wine) or water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the Spam into desired shapes for musubi (e.g., rectangular or square).
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a piece of Spam in the middle of the rice.
5. Fold the nori and rice over the Spam to form a compact musubi shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking time for sushi rice)
Tropical Hawaiian Mango Chicken
Experience a taste of paradise with this sweet and savory dish, featuring succulent chicken breasts smothered in a tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the mango salsa mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Beef Stew with Taro
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaii with this hearty beef stew, infused with the sweetness of taro and the spices of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium taro roots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in a little oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the taro, beef broth, water, soy sauce, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pineapple Glazed Hawaiian Ham
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaii with this delectable Pineapple Glazed Hawaiian Ham recipe, perfect for a tropical-inspired dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and mustard.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
7. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including glazing time)
Hawaiian-Style Sweet Potato Hash
A twist on classic hash browns, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of Hawaii, perfect for a brunch or breakfast gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, onion, garlic, pineapple, and cilantro until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Shrimp with Hawaiian Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this tropical twist on classic shrimp! Crispy coconut-coated shrimp are paired with a tangy and sweet Hawaiian dipping sauce that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Hawaiian Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Hawaiian Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice
Hawaiian-Style Chicken Long Rice Recipe
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory long rice, and a hint of tropical spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white long-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions and toasted macadamia nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 4 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice and mix well to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted macadamia nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Pineapple Hawaiian Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this sweet and savory twist! Grilled pineapple rings add a tangy, tropical flavor to our classic Hawaiian-inspired burgers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 ripe pineapples, sliced into 1-inch rings
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grilled bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and/or teriyaki sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cilantro, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Form into 4 patties.
3. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, brush pineapple rings with brown sugar and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading teriyaki sauce on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, grilled pineapple ring, and top bun.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Banana Bread with Macadamia Nuts
Get ready to transport yourself to the islands with this moist and delicious banana bread infused with the rich flavor of macadamia nuts. Perfect for a snack or dessert, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted macadamias.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped macadamia nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Tropical Hawaiian Smoothie Bowl
Escape to a tropical paradise with this creamy and refreshing smoothie bowl, packed with the flavors of Hawaii!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced fresh pineapple, toasted coconut flakes, and chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, pineapple, mango, coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour into a bowl.
4. Top with sliced fresh pineapple, toasted coconut flakes, and chopped macadamia nuts (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Hawaiian-Style Coconut Curry with Vegetables
Escape to the tropical islands of Hawaii with this creamy and aromatic curry, infused with the warmth of coconut and spices. This recipe is a perfect blend of East meets West, combining the classic Indian flavors with a hint of Hawaiian sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves; serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Hawaii with these 20 authentic recipes! From classic dishes like Kalua Pork with Cabbage and Poke Bowl to sweet treats like Haupia Coconut Pudding, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers or Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Fried Rice. Or indulge in tropical favorites like Tropical Mango Chicken and Coconut Shrimp with Hawaiian Dipping Sauce. These recipes will transport you to the islands and satisfy your taste buds.
