Hawaiian Haystacks

Hawaiian Haystacks Recipe - Authentic Taste of Hawaii

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Hawaiian Haystacks is a popular dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. This dish is a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

History

Hawaiian Haystacks originated in the United States and gained popularity in the 1960s. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) butter (optional: 0.25 lb)
1.5 cup flour
1.5 qt (1.42 liter) milk
2 tsp salt
2 can cream of mushroom soup
3 cooked chicken breasts
1 can sliced mushrooms
pineapple tidbits
chopped green onions
grated cheddar cheese
coconut
slivered almonds
chow mein noodles
cooked rice
celery

How to prepare

Cook the chicken and cut it into bite-size pieces.
Melt the butter in a large pan.
Add the flour, salt, and milk.
Stir well.
Add 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup, a can of mushrooms, and the chicken.
Simmer.
Cook the rice with a rice cooker, using the appropriate amount for the number of people to feed.
Layer the following on a plate: rice, chow mein noodles, soup mixture, pineapple, cheese, celery, green onions, coconut, almonds, and soy sauce.
Use toppings to suit your tastes.

Variations

Use different types of meat such as shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Experiment with different toppings like cashews or raisins for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before cutting it into bite-size pieces.

- Adjust the amount of butter and flour based on your desired consistency for the sauce.

- Feel free to add or omit any toppings based on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian Haystacks with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a rice cooker to cook the rice for a hassle-free preparation.

- Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this dish.

- Substitute coconut milk for dairy milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and toppings in advance and assemble the dish just before serving to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the toppings in separate bowls and let your guests customize their own Hawaiian Haystacks.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hawaiian Haystacks with a refreshing tropical fruit salad or a glass of pineapple juice for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Hawaiian Haystacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie content of Hawaiian Haystacks can vary based on the portion size and toppings used. On average, a serving can range from 400-600 calories.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates in this dish mainly come from the rice, flour, and chow mein noodles. It provides a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the butter, cheese, and coconut. It is important to consume fats in moderation for a balanced diet.

Proteins

Proteins in this dish come from the chicken and mushrooms. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and fruits used as toppings. It provides essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (butter, cheese), wheat (flour), and nuts (almonds). It is important to be mindful of any allergies when preparing or consuming this dish.

Summary

Hawaiian Haystacks is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It can be a nutritious option when prepared with wholesome ingredients.

Summary

Hawaiian Haystacks is a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to prepare and customize. With a variety of toppings and flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful meal for a taste of the tropics at home.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Hawaiian Haystacks. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house for a lunch gathering. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most wonderful aroma of chicken and creamy sauce wafting through the air.

Martha was bustling around the kitchen, preparing a colorful spread of toppings - shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, sliced olives, pineapple chunks, and crunchy chow mein noodles. I watched in awe as she ladled a creamy chicken sauce over a bed of steamed rice and topped it with a generous helping of all the delicious toppings.

I was immediately intrigued by this dish that seemed to be a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. I asked Martha for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, explaining that Hawaiian Haystacks were a family favorite that she had learned from her own grandmother.

As soon as I got home, I couldn't wait to try making Hawaiian Haystacks for my own family. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work, following Martha's instructions carefully. The creamy chicken sauce was a breeze to make, and the house was soon filled with the same delightful aroma that I had experienced at Martha's.

When it was time to assemble the dish, I set out all the toppings in colorful bowls, just like Martha had done. My family eagerly gathered around the table, their mouths watering in anticipation. As I ladled the creamy sauce over the rice and topped it with all the delicious toppings, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at recreating Martha's recipe so successfully.

From that day on, Hawaiian Haystacks became a regular feature on our dinner table. My children loved customizing their own bowls with their favorite toppings, and my husband always went back for seconds. It was a dish that brought us together as a family, creating cherished memories around the dinner table.

Over the years, I have made Hawaiian Haystacks countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's preferences. I have added extra vegetables to the creamy sauce, experimented with different types of cheese, and even tried substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version.

But no matter how many variations I have tried, the basic essence of the dish remains the same - a comforting and satisfying meal that never fails to bring a smile to my family's faces. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Hawaiian Haystacks to the next generation.

As I look back on that summer day when I first learned to make Hawaiian Haystacks, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships that have enriched my life and the joy that cooking has brought me. It is a simple yet powerful reminder of the love and connection that food can foster, transcending generations and cultures.

And so, I continue to cook and share recipes with my loved ones, knowing that each dish carries with it a story and a memory that will be cherished for years to come. And as I serve up another batch of Hawaiian Haystacks for dinner tonight, I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish not just our bodies, but also our souls.