10 Best Hawaiian Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Yearning for a culinary adventure? Tired of the same old recipes, huh? We get it. You’re craving the tropical vibes and exotic flavors of Hawaii. But, whoa! Those YouTube recipes ain’t doing justice. Here’s a game-changer: our roundup of the 10 best Hawaiian cookbooks and recipe books. These gems are your ticket to paradise, bringing the Aloha state’s goodness right in your kitchen. Why just dream when you can cook, taste, and savour? Get ready to hula with your spatula! Hawaiian cookbooks, let’s rock!

Top 10 Hawaiian Cookbooks

Here is the list of Hawaiian Cookbooks

  • Aloha Kitchen: Recipes from Hawai’i by Alana Kysar – Best Overall
  • Easy Hawaiian Cookbook by Maggie Chow – Editor’s Choice
  • The ‘Ohana Grill Cookbook by Adrienne Robillard – Best for BBQ Lovers
  • Hawaii’s Best Local Dishes by Jean Watanabe Hee – Best for Quick Meals
  • Little Hawaiian Ohana Cookbook by Joleen Oshiro – Best Family Cookbook
  • The Poke Cookbook by Martha Cheng – Best for Seafood Lovers
  • Hawaiian Barbecue Cookbook by Eddie Flores Jr. – Best for Barbecue Enthusiasts
  • Roy’s Feasts from Hawaii by John Harrisson and Roy Yamaguchi – Best for Gourmet Dishes
  • Cook Real Hawai’i by Garrett Snyder and Sheldon Simeon – Best Authentic Experience
  • Kau Kau: Cuisine and Culture in the Hawaiian Islands by Arnold Hiura – Best Cultural Insight

Aloha Kitchen: Recipes from Hawai’i by Alana Kysar

Aloha Kitchen: Recipes from Hawai’i by Alana Kysar

Ah, the Aloha spirit! Alana Kysar’s “Aloha Kitchen” is a culinary masterpiece, capturing the essence of Hawai’i. You’re transported to the islands through its pages, tasting the vibrant flavors and sensing the tropical aromas. The recipes? Authentic and diverse, reflecting Hawai’i’s melting pot of cultures. The visuals? Simply breathtaking. They evoke memories of sunsets over Waikiki and the gentle rustle of palm trees. And sustainability? Kysar emphasizes local ingredients, resonating with my core values. This isn’t just a cookbook; it’s an experience. A journey. A love letter to Hawai’i. It’s the “Best Overall” in Hawaiian cookbooks.

Easy Hawaiian Cookbook by Maggie Chow

Easy Hawaiian Cookbook by Maggie Chow

Chef Maggie Chow captures the essence of Hawaiian, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines in this delightful cookbook. With a fusion of flavors, this book offers a tantalizing mix, from the iconic Hawaiian Pizza to the savory Kalua Pig. And let’s not forget the multiple Hawaiian breads and the aromatic Pineapple Chicken. What’s truly captivating? The emphasis on authentic preparation and the artful use of spices. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey through the tropical culinary landscape. For those yearning for a taste of the islands, this book is a must-have. And… It’s been awarded the ‘Editor’s Choice’ for a reason!

The ‘Ohana Grill Cookbook by Adrienne Robillard

The ‘Ohana Grill Cookbook by Adrienne Robillard

“The ‘Ohana Grill Cookbook” is a tropical ticket to BBQ paradise. Imagine grilling Guava Chicken or Pulehu Tri-Tip, while the scent of Spicy Li Hing Mui Pineapple wafts through the air. This isn’t just a cookbook; it’s an invitation to a Hawaiian party in your backyard. Adrienne Robillard, alongside Dawn Sakamoto Paiva, captures the essence of Island grilling, blending diverse cultures and flavors. From Shoyu Hot Dogs to Adobo Pork Belly Bao, every recipe is a sensory journey. And the best part? You don’t need a plane ticket to Hawaii. Just light up the grill, and let the Island vibes flow.

Hawaii’s Best Local Dishes by Jean Watanabe Hee

Hawaii’s Best Local Dishes by Jean Watanabe Hee

Jean Watanabe Hee’s cookbook is a delightful blend of authentic Hawaiian flavors and the island’s rich culinary history. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey. With a 4.5-star rating, it’s clear that many have embarked on this gastronomic adventure and loved it. The spiral-bound design? Genius! It lays flat, making it a breeze to follow recipes. And speaking of recipes, they’re a fusion of the island’s multi-ethnic influences. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to unexpected ‘ethnic’ delights, there’s something for every palate. Hungry for a quick meal? This book’s got you covered. It’s a must-have for anyone craving a Hawaiian culinary experience. Dive in and let your taste buds dance the hula!

Little Hawaiian Ohana Cookbook by Joleen Oshiro

Little Hawaiian Ohana Cookbook by Joleen Oshiro

Ah, the Little Hawaiian Ohana Cookbook by Joleen Oshiro. It’s like a warm hug from the islands, right in your kitchen. The recipes? Think comfort food but with a tropical twist. Perfect for family gatherings, ya know? Some folks say the ingredients are a bit exotic. But hey, that’s what makes it special! It’s a hit among chefs, so you know it’s legit. But don’t expect to find every childhood fave in there. It’s selective, but in a good way. What’s the vibe? It’s cozy, like a family dinner where everyone’s laughing and the air smells like pineapple and coconut. It brings people together, just like a good meal should. And that, my friends, is the secret sauce.

The Poke Cookbook by Martha Cheng

The Poke Cookbook by Martha Cheng

Martha Cheng’s “The Poke Cookbook” is a gem. It’s a deep dive into the world of poke, showcasing the freshest ways to enjoy fish. The book’s pages are filled with vibrant photos, making you feel the ocean’s breeze. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an experience. Martha’s expertise shines, offering readers a journey through Hawaii’s culinary traditions. The recipes? Authentic. The techniques? Time-honored. And for seafood aficionados? This is your treasure trove. Dive into flavors that transport you straight to the Hawaiian shores. If seafood’s your jam, this book’s your anthem.

Hawaiian Barbecue Cookbook by Eddie Flores Jr.

Hawaiian Barbecue Cookbook by Eddie Flores Jr.

Drawing from the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culinary traditions, Eddie Flores Jr.’s “Hawaiian Barbecue Cookbook” is a gem. It’s a dance of flavors, where each recipe tells a story. Think smoky meats, tangy marinades, and that unmistakable island flair. Perfect for barbecue enthusiasts, this book captures the essence of Hawaiian BBQ. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey. A journey that takes you through the heart of Hawaii’s barbecue culture. And for those with a penchant for winning recipes, the “266 Million Winning Lottery Recipes” offers a delightful twist. Dive into these pages, and you’ll find yourself transported to a luau in no time.

Roy’s Feasts from Hawaii by John Harrisson and Roy Yamaguchi

Roy’s Feasts from Hawaii by John Harrisson and Roy Yamaguchi

Ah, Roy’s Feasts from Hawaii. A gourmet’s delight, truly. Chef Roy Yamaguchi and John Harrisson have outdone themselves. This isn’t just a cookbook. It’s a journey. Every page? A sensory explosion. Imagine savoring dishes that scream authenticity, creativity, and… oh, the flavors! It’s a culinary masterpiece from the vibrant colors to tantalizing aromas. For those with a penchant for gourmet Hawaiian dishes, this is it. The techniques? Exquisite. The presentation? Art. And the best part? It’s not just about food. It’s about the soul of Hawaii. A must-have for every gourmet enthusiast’s collection.

Cook Real Hawai’i by Garrett Snyder and Sheldon Simeon

Cook Real Hawai’i by Garrett Snyder and Sheldon Simeon

Drawing from the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and cuisine, “Cook Real Hawai’i” by Garrett Snyder and Sheldon Simeon is a culinary masterpiece. Sheldon, a Top Chef finalist, and Garrett, a seasoned food writer, have crafted a book that’s both a love letter to the islands and a guide to its authentic flavors. The recipes? They’re a symphony of tastes, textures, and aromas that transport you straight to the heart of Hawai’i. From the vibrant poke bowls to the comforting luau stew, every dish tells a story. And the best part? It’s not just about the food. It’s about the people, the traditions, and the aloha spirit that makes Hawai’i so special. Dive in, and let your senses take a journey.

Kau Kau: Cuisine and Culture in the Hawaiian Islands by Arnold Hiura

Kau Kau: Cuisine and Culture in the Hawaiian Islands by Arnold Hiura

Kau Kau: Cuisine and Culture in the Hawaiian Islands by Arnold Hiura is a gem. It’s more than just a cookbook. It’s a journey through Hawaii’s culinary history. The recipes? Authentic. The stories? Engaging. And the cultural insights? Priceless. As an expert food critic, I’ve tasted dishes worldwide. But this book? It offers a deep dive into Hawaii’s unique food culture. The blend of flavors, the tales behind each dish, and the sheer passion of the author make it stand out. If you’re keen on understanding Hawaii beyond its beaches, this is your ticket.

Final Say So!

So, there you have it, folks! A tropical treasure trove of Hawaiian cookbooks, each one a passport to paradise. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast, a seafood lover, or just someone yearning for a taste of the islands, there’s a book here for you. So, why wait? Grab your apron, summon the Aloha spirit, and let’s cook up a Hawaiian storm!

Renee Searcy

Hi! I’m Renee. From a young age, I’ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my family’s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

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