Li Hing Mui powder is a unique and beloved seasoning that has been a staple in Hawaiian cuisine for over a century. This special spice blend is made from grinding up dried salted plums known as li hing mui, which are native to China. The name “li hing mui” translates to “traveling plum” in Cantonese, reflecting the portability and convenience of these fruits as a snack. In Guam, the plums are referred to as “sweet and sours” due to their combination of sweet, salty, and tart flavors.
The arrival of Chinese immigrants to the Hawaiian Islands in the mid-1800s brought li hing mui with them, and it quickly became a popular ingredient in local cuisine. Over time, the sour plum was transformed into li hing mui powder, which became a versatile and essential seasoning in Hawaiian cooking. This flavorful powder is a blend of licorice, red food coloring, salt, sugar, and other sweeteners, creating a unique taste that is synonymous with Hawaiian dishes.
There are various ways to incorporate li hing mui powder into your cooking. It can be sprinkled on a variety of fruits such as pineapple, mango, apples, and strawberries for a sweet and tangy kick. Additionally, li hing mui powder can be used to coat gummy candy, rim cocktail glasses, or dust over warm desserts like donuts or monkey bread. In Hawai’i, it is commonly used to flavor malasadas, a popular Portuguese-style donut.
If you’re looking to purchase li hing mui powder, you can find it in local “crack seed stores” and supermarkets in Hawai’i. However, if you’re not in Hawai’i, you can easily order it online from retailers like Amazon or Walmart. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast looking to explore new flavors, li hing mui powder is a must-have ingredient that will add a unique and delicious twist to your dishes.
