Haupia

Happy Valentine's Day!  Tired of boxed chocolates and red velvet cupcakes that seem to be the Valentine's Day staple? This coconut pudding is a wonderfully light and tropical alternative.  While traditionally chilled and then cut into squares to serve, individual haupia can be prepared in heart shaped ramekins.  Or for the more ambitious, cut the chilled pudding into heart shapes for your sweet heart.  Orchids make a beautiful garnish.

adapted from the Luau recipe at Aloha Friends Luau

Serves 8 to 10

The Ingredients:
12 ounces chilled coconut milk
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup + 2 T. sugar
1/2 cup + 2 T. cornstarch


The Process:
Combine all ingredients in saucepan and stir over medium heat until thickened. Lower heat and cook for ten minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumping or burning. Pout into 8x8 inch dish and chill until set, about 2 hours.  Cut haupia into squares & serve. 

The Review:
Haupia turned out to be the sleeper of all the treats laid out before us at the luau.  At first most people avoided it, given its gelatinous appearance and slight resemblance to tofu.  Those that bit into the unremarkable white cubes were greeted with a sweet coconut flavor and a smooth velvety texture.  Guest's eye list up with wonder.  Word quickly spread and the unassuming dessert became a quick favorite.  With the short ingredient list, and easy preparation, this dessert is quick to become an impressive offering for guests.