Much like your teeth, island food favorites have roots. Hawaii cuisine spans generations and it’s not going anywhere (hopefully the same goes for your smile!). Unfortunately, many meal favorites are filled with fat. But don’t worry—you can make almost any recipe healthier—even these classic Hawaii dishes:
1. Spam Musubi
The rice is filled with vitamin D, an essential nutrient that creates strong bones and teeth. If you’re worried about Spam’s fat content, choose turkey Spam over the original. Try this healthier recipe.
2. Manapua
These buns can be nice for your teeth too. Use meat or vegetables with whole-wheat dough for the healthiest (and tastiest) option. Vegetables are essential for building a healthy body. And oral health and overall health are closely related, so they’re good for your smile too! Mix up your seasonings for an extra kick. Here’s a base recipe to get you started.
3. Poi Mochi
A staple, poi is making a cultural comeback. This customary starch dish is made from pounded taro root and boasts a wide range of uses. Poi contains many mouth healthy minerals, including folic acid, potassium and iron. Here’s one of our favorite recipes.
What are your favorite island food recipes? Share in the comments below.
