We visited our family in Hawaii for New Year's and as usual- loved tasting the "local" food scene. I am a huge fan of the many tropical and Asian inspired flavors that are abundant there. For years (even before Whole Foods and Trader Joe's carried them) we have been big fans of mochi ice cream. With it's unique, almost gummy-like texture mochi is oddly satisfying and ...
Hawaii
Manapua-Meat Filled Buns
One of the most popular “snacks” in Hawaii bears testimony to the heavy Chinese influence the islands are under. Manapua—or meat filled buns—can be found in bakeries, restaurants, and convenience stores all over the islands. Just like the Chinese Dim Sum dish Char Sui Bao, each sweet bun is traditionally filled with a scoop of char sui pork or other barbequed meat. There are ...
Garlic Chili Eggplant
Sometimes you accidentally discover that you really love something. A few years ago, I was waiting somewhat patiently for some family members to finish shopping in a chain store and as usual, I was hungry. I knew that we would probably be eating after we left, but I also knew the meal would end up being burgers, pizza, or some other boring American food and I just couldn’t ...
