The Big Island’s tropical climate and rich, volcanic soil are ideal for growing many crops used in everyday life by locals and in the outstanding cuisine presented to visitors. Some foods produced here are unique to the Islands and found nowhere else in the United States.
Hawaii is the only state growing commercially produced coffee, such as the world famous Kona coffee. The Big Island also grows other tasty coffees in its Kau, Puna and Hamakua districts.
Chocolate is another exotic, Big Island product, as are the healthy Hawaiian macadamia nuts. And, while beer is not unique to the Islands, there are many micro-breweries making great local suds everywhere from Waimea to Kona to Hilo.
There are also many Hawaiian eats that have become part of food scene over the centuries. The diverse cultures and ethnicity of the Islands that have melded here brought about a treasure trove of tastes that shouldn’t be missed on vacation.
Hawaii’s diverse culture and ethnicity have brought about an incredible menu of foods to tantalize any taste buds.
Poke is raw fish typically marinated in soy sauce, onions and lemon. Poi is the traditional Hawaiian starchy “pudding” made from the taro root. Lomi Lomi Salmon is a fresh tomato and salmon salad often served as a side dish. Laulua is fish, chicken or pork wrapped in taro and ti leaves, smoked in an underground emu oven for hours. In a like manner, Kalua Pig is cooked underground with hot rocks and covered in leaves for a wonderfully tender and smoky taste.
Crunchy Spam Musubi is a local favorite that you at least should try when here. Huli Huli Chicken is slowly roasted and turned over a grill. Chicken Long Rice is not a Hawaiian standard, but is very popular with meals, including luaus. Portuguese Sausage will put a little zing in your breakfast.
Mochi are little Japanese rice cake snacks. Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made of coconut milk and cornstarch. Malassadas are Portuguese sugared and fried yeast dough balls that will melt in your mouth.
When you are at the Royal Kona Resort of the Big Island, try out the many tastes of the Islands in the restaurants and at the famous luau. For more information, go to www.hawaiihotels.com.