Hawaii is known for a myriad of unique flavors that span a wide range of sweet and savory. One such flavor, li hing mui, is featured on a variety of foods as a seasoning, including dried fruit and sherbet. Learn more about this popular flavoring and the ways in which it can be enjoyed.

What Is Li Hing Mui?

Li hing mui is a preserved plum. First, the plum is picked green, before ripeness, which lets it retain its extremely tart flavor. It’s then dehydrated and rehydrated repeatedly in sugar syrup to boost a little sweetness into the taste while maintaining much of the sourness. Any bits of plum that break off during this process are ground down into dust and used as a flavoring for snacks, candy, and fine dining.

How Popular Is Li Hing Mui in Hawaii?

Products featuring li hing mui flavor can be found all over the islands. Local convenience stores carry bags of dried fruit coated with the sour powder as well as gummy candies based off of its intense taste. Ice cream shops provide li hing sherbets and shaved ice, and mobile doughnut trucks even have the powder available to sprinkle over their freshly fried concoctions, making it easily accessible no matter what you’re in the mood to eat.

After realizing the impact that li hing mui has had on the community, area restaurants incorporated it into the menus. Salads can now be drizzled with a li hing dressing, and baby back ribs acquire the unique taste with a generous rub. Even margaritas are available with the rims generously dusted with the tart flavoring.

Interested in sampling this cultural treat? Stop by Tropilicious Ice Cream Shop in Honolulu, HI, and order some of their Li Hing Mango sherbet! These professionals have served a vast selection of quality handcrafted ice cream, sherbets, and sorbets since 1995, many of which incorporate traditional Hawaii flavors. Call (808) 847-1750 to speak with a representative about their available flavors, or visit their website for a full menu. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook for new flavors and updates.