Cook Real Hawai'i

January 18, 2021
Two-time Top Chef competitor Simeon celebrates Hawaiian cuisine in this enticing collection. A third-generation Filipino-Hawaiian, Simeon details what it means to be Hawaiian and the important role that ethnicity plays in that definition: “See, in Hawai‘i we identify ourselves ethnically rather than geographically. On the mainland people might say ‘I’m a New Yorker,’ but here it’s ‘Lyndon? He’s Portuguese Chinese Hawaiian.’ ” He offers a brief history of the islands and describes local eating customs, including ohana food served family style; the plate lunch served with rice and mac and cheese; and pupus, an array of bountiful appetizers guaranteed to satiate even the most ravenous appetites. The recipes reflect the wide array of ethnic influences at play in Hawaiian culture, including Japanese shoyu dip with sesame crunch, Korean kimchee dip, and Filipino boiled peanuts with “oxtail spice.” Dishes such as garlic shrimp, “chop steak” cooked with ginger and onions, and pocho (steamed clams with Portuguese sausage) are drool-inducing. Some meals, such as Okinawan pig’s feet and lahaina fried soup made with Spam, may be an acquired taste, but in Simeon’s capable hands, even these unusual meals can be appetizing. Those looking to bring the tastes of Hawaii into their home will find no better guide.

March 1, 2021

Simeon, a fan favorite and finalist on Top Chef, sets out to define Hawai'i's tradition of "local food" through his story and the history of Hawai'i: the impact of colonization, the exploitation of natives, and the role of migrants in establishing a new culture of food and family. Beyond this introduction, the author answers a brief list of FAQs, detailing how to serve family-style and plate lunch meals, as well as methods and sourcing. Sections include appetizers to feed all appetites, grilling, slow-cooked foods, and more. A detailed ingredient guide is an added bonus. Segments on influencers are also featured throughout, highlighting the cultures and communities that influence local food. VERDICT With an emphasis on everyday meals over specialty dishes, the majority of the recipes are practical and feature ingredients that are easy to source. Great for home cooks wanting to explore Hawaiian cuisine at home, or those wanting to try new flavors and enhance their repertoire of fusion-inspired dishes.--Gricel Dominguez, Florida International Univ. Lib., Miami

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