When one thinks of Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii, renowned for its commitment to education, the idea of its food might not be the first to come to mind. However, the school's culinary program is just as rich and impressive as its academic legacy. With a blend of traditional Hawaiian dishes, innovative fusion, and international cuisine, here are seven scrumptious recipes inspired by Punahou School's cafeteria that you can recreate at home.
1. Manapua
Manapua, or char siu bao, is a beloved Hawaiian delicacy with Chinese origins, perfectly encapsulated in Punahou's culinary offerings:
- 1/2 pound of char siu (Chinese BBQ pork), chopped
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
🍑 Note: Manapua can be made with different fillings like chicken, custard, or bean paste. Experiment to find your favorite.
2. Punahou Pancake Breakfast
This isn't just any pancake; it's the Punahou Pancake breakfast, famous for its fluffiness:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
3. Poke Bowl
Embodying the spirit of Aloha, Poke is a simple yet flavorful dish:
- 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna or salmon, cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sambal oelek or chili paste
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 avocado, cubed
- 2 cups steamed white or brown rice
- Optional garnishes: seaweed, cucumber, sesame seeds
4. Haupia (Coconut Pudding)
This rich and creamy dessert is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine:
- 1 can (14 oz.) coconut milk
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- Optional: toasted shredded coconut for topping
🌴 Note: Haupia can be served chilled, cut into squares, or layered in various desserts for an added Hawaiian touch.
5. Kalua Pork
Traditionally cooked in an imu (underground oven), this dish has a smoky, tender flavor:
- 1 pork shoulder roast (4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 3 tablespoons water
6. Purple Sweet Potato Casserole
Celebrating the vibrant colors of Hawaii with the nutrient-packed Okinawan sweet potato:
- 4 cups cooked and mashed purple sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Topping: coconut flakes, chopped macadamia nuts
7. Chocolate Haupia Pie
Combining rich chocolate with the creamy texture of haupia, this pie is a feast for the senses:
- Crust: 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup melted butter
- Chocolate layer: 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup milk
- Haupia layer: Coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, water
- Whipped cream for topping
The culinary offerings from Punahou School highlight the school's dedication to providing not just education, but a holistic experience that includes cultural richness through food. By trying these recipes, you are not only enjoying delicious dishes but also participating in the cultural heritage of Hawaii. Cooking these meals can be an immersive experience, bringing the spirit of Aloha to your table and creating lasting memories with friends and family.
Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?
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Yes, many ingredients can be substituted. For instance, you can use vegetable oil instead of shortening in the manapua dough or substitute tofu for the tuna in a poke bowl to make it vegetarian.
What if I don’t have a steamer for the Manapua?
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You can improvise with a homemade steamer using a pot, a heat-safe bowl, and a heat-safe plate or rack that fits inside the pot. Simply fill the pot with water just below the plate, cover, and steam.
Is the Kalua Pork recipe authentic?
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While not traditional, this home-style method replicates the flavors of Kalua Pork cooked in an imu by using liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor.
