Servings: 6 dozen

Ingredients

　　　　　　　　　　　Oil for frying
1 package           (1 pound, 1 oz.) fresh poi*
1 cup                   sugar
1 1/4 cups           flour      
1/2 cup                mochiko
3/4 cup                water

 

Instructions

Heat oil to 375°F ( 190°C).
Combine all ingredients.
Drop poi mixture by teaspoonfuls into heated oil and fry
7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked thoroughly.

(Favorite Island Cookery Book II, Honpa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, 1975)

 

What is Poi?

 Poi which is made from the taro plant has been eaten as the main staple food since the arrival of the first Polynesians to Hawaii.  It is not only one of the oldest cultivated plants in Hawaii, but is highly significant in Hawaiian culture as it was considered sacred.  Poi is made by mashing the cooked (steamed or baked) taro root mixed with water until the desired texture is achieved.  Today, poi is a popular Hawaiian staple and is also recommended for it high nutritional value.