Hawaii is considered a melting pot with people of all cultures making their home in our beautiful state. While there are many benefits to having such a diverse population, most would agree that food is one of the biggest! Our Shave Ice came from Japan, Kimchi from Korea, the Chinese brought dim sum, but one of our favorites was introduced by the Portuguese; the Malasada.
To call a Malasada a donut would be doing this popular ono (treat) a disservice, however if they must be likened to something, a donut would be the closest bet. Malasadas are deep fried balls of dough that are rolled in / dusted with sugar or cinnamon while they are still hot. This may sound similar to a sugar donut; however a malasada is slightly chewier, and a bit fluffier than your average donut. They are every bit as delicious and according to anyone who has tried them, even more so. Some varieties include a filling of custard, chocolate and even more tropical flavored creams or jellies like coconut and mango.
So loved are our Malasadas here in Hawaii, that we’ve dedicated an entire day to them. Malasada Day falls on Shrove / Fat Tuesday which got its start as the feast prior to Lent. The Portuguese immigrants who brought the recipe to Hawaii would make Malasadas to use up all of the lard and sugar in the home before the start of Lent. The recipe quickly spread throughout the islands and to this day they remain a favorite of all. Malasadas are a staple at parties, local festivals, and concerts, and you’ll even find them on food trucks.
Because we don’t recommend leaving Hawaii without having tasted this island favorite, we’ve included links to two of the best places in town to get your hands on these delicious treats!
We had a wonderful time at Sail Away and I recommended Hawaii Hideaway to dozens of people. You were a delight to work with and I will definitely use you again the next time we rent a home in the islands.
Roseville, CA
Like a Dream
Bliss doesn’t even describe our experience. It was almost like a dream. We are ready to do this again with Hawaii Hideaways – you guys are the best. Everything was perfect!!!
Amarillo, TX
Outstanding Experience From Beginning to End
It was in an outstanding experience from beginning to end, I would work with Hawaii hideaways again in the future unquestionably. Sunny Madeiros was terrific with her recommendations of everything from leisure activities to restaurants and even equipment rentals.
Coral Gables, FL
Perfect Combination of Elegance and Comfort
First time to Maui (and Hawaii). This is a spectacular setting and the home is a perfect combination of elegance and comfort. I could stay on the lanai all day long and be happy. Of course there’s a ton of fun activities, but it was great to have Gull Cottage as our base to come back to!
Arlington Heights, IL
You’re Going to Want to Stay
Our family spent a splendid week in Kauai in early 2017, basing ourselves out of the Touching Green house. It’s in a great location, has everything you need, and is just lovely. The pictures don’t do it justice. You’re going to want to stay!
We had a wonderful time in Kauai! We remained in awe at the unimaginable beauty, both of the rental home, as well as Kauai itself. It will be a treasured memory for life. I hope we can come back and make more memories.