Portuguese sausage, soy sauce scrambled eggs, and rice are not just a delicious combination, but a beloved staple in Hawaii. This unique dish has its roots in the beautiful islands of Hawaii and has made its way into the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will explore the origins of Portuguese sausage in Hawaii, share a glimpse of the lesser-known North Shore of Oahu, and provide you with some insights on cooking this delightful meal.
The Taste of the Hawaiian Islands
When you think of the Hawaiian Islands, your mind might wander to the stunning beaches and world-famous waves. However, there is so much more to explore in these tropical paradise. One hidden gem is the North Shore of Oahu, which is often overshadowed by its surfing reputation. But did you know that this area is also home to some mouthwatering local cuisine?
Ted’s Bakery, located in Sunset Beach, is a popular spot among both locals and tourists. They serve up traditional Hawaiian dishes, and one of the favorites is Portuguese sausage, rice, and eggs. This delightful combination is so beloved that even McDonald’s has it on their menu for the island residents, known as kama’aina. So, what exactly is Portuguese sausage, and why is it such a hit?
Unveiling Portuguese Sausage
Portuguese sausage has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other sausages. In Hawaii, it is a larger, slightly sweeter, and softer version of the original linguiça. You can find it in both mild and hot varieties, with the hot version having a dash of red pepper for an extra kick. Our family prefers the spicy style, but many restaurants offer only the mild version. One place that delivers the perfect balance of flavors is Ted’s Bakery, where the sausages are pan-fried to perfection, creating a crispy outer layer and a smoky, savory taste inside.
Soy Sauce Scrambled Eggs
To complement the Portuguese sausage, we always make soy sauce scrambled eggs at home. This simple twist on classic scrambled eggs adds a unique flavor to your meal. Just add a touch of soy sauce and a bit of milk or cream to your eggs, and you’ll find yourself with a delightful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In our family, we even have a special name for these eggs – Kung Jung eggs. Alongside the sausage and eggs, we always have a serving of steamed Japanese short grain rice, topped with furikake, a Japanese spice blend that adds an extra burst of flavor with dried seaweed and sesame seeds.
Cooking Portuguese Sausage and Soy Sauce Scrambled Eggs
Cooking Portuguese sausage is a breeze. Simply cut the sausage on a bias to get substantial pieces with plenty of surface area to brown. You can pan fry, broil, or grill it. Since the sausage is pre-cooked, all you need to do is sear it to perfection and make it hot. If you prefer to reduce the fat content, broiling on a traditional broiler pan with holes allows the fat to drip through, making it a healthier option.
For the soy sauce scrambled eggs, crack the eggs into a bowl, add soy sauce and a touch of milk or cream, and mix it all together. Cook the mixture in a frying pan with a bit of butter to your desired doneness. These eggs are a delightful addition to the Portuguese sausage and rice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Where to Buy Portuguese Sausage
If you want to recreate this Hawaiian-style dish at home, you may be wondering where you can find Portuguese sausage. In my area, Costco carries the Silva brand, which is excellent and locally made in California. You can also explore different online options such as orderhawaiianfood.com, Purity Foods Hawaii, or Frank’s Foods, which offer great Hawaiian-made brands. Additionally, you can check out my Amazon shop for recommendations on some of my favorite food and food-related products.
Exploring Ted’s Bakery on Oahu’s North Shore
While visiting the North Shore, make sure to stop by Ted’s Bakery for more than just their famous Chocolate Haupia Pie. Indulge in the Portuguese sausage, rice, and eggs, and treat yourself to their mouthwatering baked goods like the malasada, a Portuguese version of a donut. The texture and flavor of Ted’s malasadas are simply heavenly and leave a lasting impression. Some might argue that Leonard’s in Honolulu has the best malasadas, but Ted’s Bakery will give them a run for their money.
In conclusion, Portuguese sausage, rice, and eggs are a true taste of Hawaii. With the spicy sausage, savory soy sauce scrambled eggs, and steamed Japanese short grain rice, this dish brings together a blend of flavors that will transport you to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not bring a touch of Hawaii to your kitchen and experience the unique flavors for yourself?
Don’t forget to leave a star rating and review if you try this recipe. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! For more culinary inspiration, visit Ekilove and explore our recipes. And remember, the best meals are enjoyed with loved ones and a sense of aloha.