A Poifect Poi Parfait

HPC Foods Ltd., the state’s foremost taro processor, and its Taro Brand products have long been well-known names in Hawaii’s food industry.

Founded in 1946 by Kakuichi Tottori as a small poi milling operation called Honolulu Poi Company, the business has grown from three employees to become one of the state’s largest poi manufacturers and a leader in the development of taro products.

Since the company entered the market of growing sprouts in the 1960s, it has become the largest “sprouter” in Hawaii.

Four generations of Tottori families later, you’ll find the familiar Taro Brand logo on bags of fresh bean, broccoli and clover sprouts as well as salad mixes and cut vegetables in local grocery stores across the Islands.

Taro Brand products will be among the featured companies at the 20th annual Made in Hawaii Festival Aug. 15-17 at Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall and Arena.

Look for them at the festival’s inaugural New Product Showcase for first-time festival exhibitors in the Pikake Room.

The festival features Hawaii-made food products, apparel and jewelry, art, and other goods from nearly 400 vendors across the state.

Cooking demonstrations by some of Hawaii’s favorite chefs and entertainment by award-winning musicians also take place throughout the three days.

Visit MadeInHawaiiFestival.com for hours and a festival schedule.

From power smoothies to stew, poi is a healthy and versatile food for local appetites.

For a refreshing summer breakfast or after-dinner treat, Honolulu Poi Company offers a simple and tasty twist on the traditional parfait!

Poi, the fermented paste of the tuber of the taro plant, is a sacred and ancient life-giving food.

Taro is hypoallergenic, gluten-free, very nutritious and considered to be a beneficial carbohydrate that provides a high fiber, slow-release energy source.

Poi is rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, a good source of B vitamins, and contains vitamins A and C, minerals, and a small quantity of high-quality, easily digestible protein.

POI PARFAIT

* 1/2 cup Taro Brand Poi
* 2 tablespoons cold water
* 2 teaspoons agave (or other natural sweetener)
* granola
* banana
* strawberries
* blueberries

Mix poi and water. Add agave, blend well. (May be prepared in advance and chilled.) Pour poi mixture in bottom of bowl.

Layer with granola and top with assorted sliced fruit. heartychef@hotmail.com