Hawaiian cuisine encompasses many tasty dishes, such as lau lau, lomi salmon, and kalua pig. Most of these entrees are followed by haupia, which is similar to a coconut Jell-O^®. If you plan to visit the Aloha State, here’s what you need to know about this delectable dessert.

How Is It Made?

The main ingredient of haupia is coconut milk, and it’s heated at a low to medium temperature until it adopts a gelatinous consistency. Most recipes call for cornstarch or unflavored gelatin to thicken the mix. Sugar is typically added to sweeten the mixture; however, some recipes call for a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of vanilla to enhance the taste. Once the mixture is thick and smooth, it’s poured into containers and chilled until it solidifies into gelatin.

Haupia is cut into small squares and sometimes served topped with coconut flakes for added texture. This dessert is creamy and sweet without being too overwhelming—it’s the perfect ending to a meal of traditional Hawaiian cuisine.

What Are the Benefits of Eating Coconut?

Eating haupia will help you reap the health benefits of consuming coconut since the fruit is the main ingredient. Consuming the meat raw or processed, via coconut milk or oil, delivers a few health benefits.

The dried coconut flakes on top of haupia are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as manganese, copper, and iron. Manganese supports bone health and the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates. Copper and iron help the body produce red blood cells. Additionally, coconut is abundant in phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that protect your cells from the damage of free radicals.

If you’re traveling to Oahu and want to try authentic haupia, go to a luau at Experience Nutridge in Honolulu, HI. During your luau, you’ll learn how the Hawaiians cooked their food and help prepare dinner in the imu, which is an underground oven. For dinner, you’ll get to eat traditional Hawaiian cuisine and enjoy island dishes, like pulehu chicken, kalua pig, and haupia. Call (808) 531-5050 to book your reservation, or inquire about a private cultural experience online.