Part of what makes a trip to Hawaii so appealing is the fact that the state is so far away and unique from the rest of the Lower 48. The culture has been influenced by the Polynesian natives as well as Japanese, European, and American interactions, resulting in a delightful and unique place. Hawaiian cuisine reflects this multicultural heritage, and contains some of the most incredible dishes you'll find this side of the Pacific. Here are some things to be sure to sample while on vacation.
Lomi salmon was introduced to the islands by western sailors, and has become a favorite side dish at luaus. Created using salted salmon, which is finely diced and mixed with tomatoes, it is a cold salad that also makes use of red chili peppers and Maui onions. Other ingredients include cucumber and green onion. It compliments the traditional raw ahi tunas and fragrant kalua pigs served during Hawaiian gatherings, and is an integral dish for many locals.
Poke is another raw fish salad, usually served as an appetizer. It's typically made of ahi, or yellowfin tuna, which is marinated in a mixture of sea salt, soy sauce, candlenut, seaweed, chilies, and sesame oil. Tomatoes and sweet Maui onions are included in the final mixture, and it's not uncommon to see poke served with Wasatch on the side. Poke uses raw salmon or cured octopus and you may find this more to your liking than their ahi dish.
If someone offers you a loco moco, don't worry; despite the odd name, it's one of the most delicious meals you'll eat while on vacation. There are lots of different variations, but a standard loco moco is made up of white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy drizzled on top. One of the most popular meals among the islanders, is this unique dish that was created in Hilo, Hawaii, in the 1940s. Moco locos require little preparation time, making them an ideal lunch for workers on the go, and an easier fix than typical Japanese bento boxes. Other plates available include fish, bacon, spam, teriyaki beef, and oyster loco moco.
Hawaiians are famous for their love of Spam. While most people consider the canned meat product to be a last resort meal, the islanders treat it as a delicacy, and have whipped up several Spam-based dishes over the years. They have also adopted a lot of Japanese influences on their cuisine, making and eating raw fish dishes almost as frequently as some West Coast hipsters with wasabi addictions. Much like the chocolate and peanut butter question, Hawaiians have found an outstanding taste combination which has led them to create spam musubi. This sushi dish consists of a slice of grilled Spam and a block of rice, wrapped in nori seaweed. They are inexpensive, easy to eat, and one of the most popular fast food items in the state. You can find them near cash registers in almost every major convenience store - and while you're at it, be sure to try some of the Spam products that can be found at Hawaii-based McDonald's!
