Famous Hawaii Foods
These Famous Hawaii Foods include shave ice, sushi, acai bowls, manapua, and Haupia pie. Traditional island foods are rich in fresh fruit, seafood, and refreshing cold desserts.
Try these dishes when you’re in the mood for some delicious Hawaiian fare.
Check out our 50 states unit study for some fun states info!
Check out our 50 states unit study for some fun states info!
Hawaii consists of islands in the Pacific Ocean and was annexed by the U.S. in 1898. Also, over the last century, diverse cultures joined Native Hawaiians, enriching the food culture. Furthermore, these influences created various delicious dishes.
Here is a list of 10 famous Hawaii foods with three recipes for each category. Whether you’re native to the islands or you want to keep a piece of paradise with you, these recipes will take you right there.
Shave Ice
Start by shaving a block of ice with a sharp knife to create fluffy snow. Then, drizzle fruity syrups on top for flavor.
- How To Make Hawaiian Shave Ice
- Shave Ice and Snoball Recipes
- Hawaiian Shave Ice – How To Make Homemade Pineapple Syrup
Sushi
Sushi is never as fresh or delicious as when it comes from the sea the same day. In Hawaii, you’ll experience sushi as you’ve never had before. These recipes require the freshest fish you can find!
- Homemade Sushi Recipe – Surprisingly Easy To Make Yourself
- Homemade Sushi: Tips, Tricks, and Toppings!
- How To Make Sushi Rolls (Maki Rolls)
Poke Bowls
Poke bowls are Hawaiian Buddha bowls and have diced fish, grains, legumes, avocados, sesame seeds, and sauces drizzled over the top.
Mochi Balls
Mochi balls are little balls of ice cream wrapped in sweet rice flour dough and then frozen. The dough is soft and pillowy and a fun project to make with kids!
- How To Make Japanese Mochi Ice Cream
- Easy Mochi Ice Cream Recipe
- How To Make The Best Homemade Mochi You’ve Ever Had
Acai Bowls
Blend acai fruit to form the base of the bowl. Next, add toppings like cacao nibs, coconut, bananas, and peanut butter. Include strawberries, blueberries, mango, nuts, and granola on top.
- Acai Bowl Recipe – How To Make Your Own Acai
- Acai Bowl Recipe {Blender or Food Processor Option
- Acai Bowl (5 Homemade Recipes!)
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Manapua
Manapua are often called pork buns. They have a fluffy outer bun, are packed with chewy chopped pork on the inside, and served hot.
Loco Moco
Loco moco is traditional Hawaiian comfort food. It’s made with a bed of sticky rice, a ground beef patty on top, covered with brown gravy, then topped with a fried egg.
Haupia Pie
Haupia pie is a no-bake dessert made with coconut milk and a silky chocolate layer then topped with whipped cream. Sprinkle some coconut flakes on top for a fun and chewy finish.
Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli chicken is marinated in a teriyaki-style sauce overnight then roasted by turning them over a spit. You can also grill them if you don’t have a spit roaster.
Malasadas
Malasadas are small fried balls of dough rolled in sugar and sometimes stuffed with haupia filling. These delicious little doughnuts are addicting!
More Hawaii Resources
- Hawaii State Books for Kids
- 50 State Unit Study Guide Resources
- Educational and Fun USA Landmarks Flashcards
- 27 Easy Hawaiian Recipes
