Discover the delicious taste of Kauai with this traditional Kulolo recipe, a sweet and sticky cake made with taro root and coconut milk.
During our recent trip to Kauai, we had the pleasure of sampling this sweet confection at the Kauai Community College Farmers Market. It’s a delightful treat that showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Three-Ingredient Steamed Kululo Recipe
Kauai Kululo is a type of steamed cake, often made with taro root. It’s a simple yet satisfying dessert that’s been enjoyed by Hawaiians for generations. The earthy flavor of taro combined with coconut milk and sugar creates a unique taste experience.
You can use an Instant Pot, or a traditional steamer, to steam the kulolo.
What is Taro?
Taro, a staple food in many Pacific Island cultures, is a root vegetable with a slightly nutty flavor. It’s often used in a variety of dishes, from poi to taro chips. If you’re interested in making your own kululo recipe, you can purchase raw taro at farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores. Purchase the mana or lauloa variety, which will work best for this kulolo recipe.
Hanalei Taro Company
Hanalei Taro, one of the purveyors of this delectable treat, is a family-owned business with a deep-rooted connection to Hawaiian agriculture. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices and traditional recipes shines through in every bite of their kululo.
If you’re ever in Kauai, be sure to visit their farm and learn more about their rich history and delicious products.
By making this kululo recipe at home, you can savor the taste of Kauai and connect with its culinary heritage.
😋 More Delicious Recipes
- Hawaiian Breakfast
- Hawaiian Granola and Yogurt
- Huli Huli Chicken
- Chocolate Haupia Pie
- Huli Huli Chicken
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Kauai Kulolo
Recipe by Jason Hill – CookingSessions.comIngredients
- 2 cups peeled and grated raw taro
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 cup raw sugar or white sugar
Instructions
- Combine grated taro, coconut milk, and raw sugar. Mix well.
Steaming Method (Preferred):
- Line a 6-inch pan with foil or parchment paper.
- Add the taro mixture and cover the pan tightly with foil.
- Place in the top steamer basket. Steam for 5-6 hours.
Instant Pot Method:
- Line an 8×2-inch cake pan with foil.
- Set a 6-8 quart Instant Pot to saute mode.
- Pour the taro mixture into the prepared pan. Cover tightly with foil.
- Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.
- Place crumbled foil in the pot to elevate the cake pan. Place the cake pan inside the Instant Pot.
- Cover and set to sealing.
- Cook on manual high pressure for 150 minutes.
Baked Method:
- Bake in a loaf pan, covered with foil, at 400 F for 2 hours.