In October, we had the rare opportunity to attend Lihue’s annual block party, where we had the pleasure of indulging in a local delicacy: the Kauai Flying Saucer sandwich. These unique grilled sandwiches, made famous by the Stan’s Flying Saucers stand, are a testament to the island’s unique culinary creativity.
What is a Kauai Flying Saucer?
A Kauai Flying Saucer is a delightful sandwich cooked in a Toas-Tite iron, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a warm, gooey interior. These sandwiches are a beloved local treat, often enjoyed at festivals, community events, and local eateries.
Kauai’s Flying Saucer Sandwich History
The exact origins of the Kauai Flying Saucer sandwiches are debated. One popular theory suggests that it was first created by two school cafeteria managers at the Kauai Soto Zen Temple in Hanapepe. Inspired by a hamburger sandwich cooked in a pie iron at a local festival, they developed their own recipe. The sandwich was first served at a town park festival and later at the Waimea High School 75th anniversary celebration in 1957.
Another theory links the sandwich to the McBryde Plantation. Some believe that the original Flying Saucer was created by plantation workers or their families.
Regardless of its exact origins, the Kauai Flying Saucer is a beloved local delicacy. Its simple yet delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors continues to captivate locals and visitors alike.
The Toas-Tite Iron
The secret to the Flying Saucer’s unique shape lies in the Toas-Tite iron. This simple tool presses and toasts sandwiches to perfection, creating a circular, UFO-like shape. It’s a handheld cooking device that allows you to create delicious, pocket-sized sandwiches, pies, and other treats. It’s particularly popular for camping and outdoor cooking, as it can be used over a campfire, grill, or stovetop.
Heavenly Fillings: A Galactic Gastronomic Experience
The beauty of the Flying Saucer lies in its versatility. While the classic Sloppy Joe filling with melted American cheese is a crowd-pleaser, the possibilities are truly endless. Here are a few ideas to inspire your flying saucer fillings:
Classic Comfort:
- Grilled Cheese: A timeless classic, elevated to new heights.
- Ham and Cheese: A simple yet satisfying combination.
- Turkey and Cheese: A lighter option with a savory twist.
- Big Dipper Flying Saucer: Roast beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, with homemade au jus for dipping.
Sweet Treats:
- Nutella and Banana: A decadent dessert sandwich.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly: A childhood favorite, always a crowd-pleaser.
- Apple Pie: A warm and comforting treat, with apples, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Uncle Koa’s Flying Saucer Caramel Apple Hot Pressed Pie: Cinnamon, brown sugar, gala apples, and homemade caramel.
- S’more Nutz PB&H: Biscoff cookie, honey graham cracker, marshmallow, chocolate hazelnut spread, and smooth peanut butter.
Savory Surprises:
- Egg and Cheese: A hearty breakfast sandwich.
- Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: A classic breakfast combo, perfect for a quick meal.
- Pizza: A fun and creative option, with pizza sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Get Creative:
- Leftover Night: Use up any leftovers you have, like roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different herbs, spices, and sauces to your sandwiches.
Camping with the Toas-Tite Iron
A Toas-Tite iron is a fantastic addition to your camping gear. It allows you to cook delicious meals over an open fire, bringing a touch of home to your outdoor adventures. Here’s how to use it:
- Prepare Your Filling: Choose your favorite sweet or savory filling.
- Assemble Your Sandwich: Use sturdy bread and place your filling in the center.
- Heat Your Toas-Tite: Position it over hot coals or use a camp stove.
- Cook Your Sandwich: Allow it to cook slowly and evenly, rotating as needed.
A Taste of Paradise
Whether you’re camping under the stars or enjoying a backyard barbecue, a Kauai Flying Saucer is sure to elevate your dining experience. So, grab your Toas-Tite iron, gather your favorite ingredients, and let your creative juices go to work!
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Kaua‘i’s Flying Saucer Sandwiches
Equipment
Ingredients
Classic Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 2 pounds ground beef or turkey
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 slice American cheese per sandwich
Turkey Pesto Filling:
- 1 slice roasted turkey
- 1 slice Provolone cheese
- 1 tbsp basil pesto
Papa Stan's Filling:
- 2 tbsp Pulled Pork
- 1 tbsp Honey BBQ Sauce
- 1 slice Havarti Cheese
Big Dipper Filling:
- 1 slice roast beef
- 2 tbsp sautéed onions & bell peppers
- Au Jus for dipping
Emilani Filling:
- 2 slices apple banana or regular banana
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon sugar
For Assembly
- White bread buttered
- American cheese slices
- Butter for coating bread
Instructions
Sloppy Joe Filling (Optional):
- Brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assemble the sandwiches:
- Choose what filling you'd like to put in your Flying Saucer sandwiches.
- Place a slice of buttered white bread on a plate.
- Spoon the filling on to the center of the bread, being careful to leave plenty of room so the sandwiches can seal in the iron.
- Cover with another slice of buttered white bread.
Grill the sandwiches:
- Place sandwiches in a Toast-Tite sandwich maker. Remove excess bread that is clipped off.
- Grill the sandwiches over an open flame, flipping regularly over low heat until golden brown on both sides.
- Enjoy with fresh squeezed lemonade, Southern Sweet Tea or an Arnold Palmer!