Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk. Although it has been called a pudding, haupia is typically served in squares because it has a more solid consistency like gelatin. The original recipe was thickened using ground pia or arrowroot that was brought to the islands by Polynesians; however, today cornstarch is commonly substituted. Early Polynesian settlers also were the ones to introduce coconut trees to Hawaii and therefore they most likely created the first version of haupia. The sweet treat has a creamy coconut flavor and a silky texture that melts in the mouth. It remains a staple dessert dish served at Hawaiian celebrations and luaus.
Recipe Servings: 24
+ 2 hours resting
Ingredients
- 5 Tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup sugar
- ⅛ tsp salt
- 2 cups coconut milk, divided
Directions
- Combine the cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a saucepan; stir in ¼ cup of the coconut milk until a paste forms.
- Stir in the remaining coconut milk and set the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir for about 5 minutes or until thickened enough to coat the back of a metal spoon.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until cold.
Recipe introduction and directions © Copyright 2016-2024 World Trade Press. All rights reserved.