Hawaiian

You can find butter mochi on practically every corner in Hawaii—it’s that ubiquitous because, well, it’s that good. For my version, I’ve browned the butter for a layer of toasted nutty flavor and added miso, which balances out the sweetness with its signature umami.

Hawai‘i’s beloved fried chicken is crispy, sweet, and savory.

Charred purple potato salad with mayo, lemon, and soy is smoky, creamy, and designed to be the star of any summer picnic or barbecue.

This sunny mango bread is ultra-moist and bursting with tropical flavor; the loaf is topped with a tangy mango-lime glaze that sets to a glossy finish.

Lovers of the classic salty-sweet Hawaiian popcorn flavor, these nori-seasoned potato chips are for you.

Crisp pecans in a sticky mochi cake makes for a dreamy dessert. A dab of miso gives it intriguing depth.

Soy-slicked luncheon meat with sticky white rice and crisp nori. What could be better?

For anyone who has ever thought they hate Hawaiian pizza: This pie is for you.

The real key here is to use the best-quality tuna you can find. When in doubt, ask your fishmonger if he would eat it raw. If the answer is no, neither should you.