Where to find fresh, locally made jerky on each island
National Jerky Day is celebrated annually on June 12 to honor the popular snack made from dried and cured meats. National Jerky Day is celebrated annually on June 12 in Hawaii. The snack is made from dried and cured meats, known for its high protein content and long shelf life, and is a popular snack among nearly every group on the planet. The tradition of locally-made jerky in Hawaii dates back to ancient Hawaiian times, where dried fish and pig were used as a valuable resource during times of scarcity. Dried fish was often included in offerings to the gods and used in various traditional ceremonies. Here are where you can find locally made jerky on each of the Hawaiian islands.
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HONOLULU (KHON2) — National Jerky Day is celebrated annually on June 12 to honor the popular snack made from dried and cured meats.
Jerky, known for its high protein content and long shelf life, has been a favorite snack for centuries amongst nearly every people group on the planet. It’s made from various meats including beef, pork, turkey, and even exotic meats like venison, bison and fish.
Hawaiʻi has a rich tradition of making unique and flavorful jerky, often incorporating local ingredients and flavors.
Dried fish, known as “i’a maloʻo” in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, has a long history in the islands, dating back to ancient Hawaiian times.
Fish and pig were staple foods in the traditional Native Hawaiian diet, and drying was one of the primary methods used to preserve it for later consumption.
Native Hawaiians used various techniques to preserve fish and pig, including salting and drying. The fish or pig would be cleaned, salted and then laid out to dry in the sun. This method extended the shelf life of the fish or pig, making it a valuable resource during times of scarcity.
Dried fish or pig was not only a practical food source but also held cultural significance. Dried fish was often included in offerings to the gods and used in various traditional ceremonies.
Several types of fish were commonly dried in ancient Hawaiʻi, including:
• Ahi (Tuna): Known for its firm texture and rich flavor.
• Aku (Skipjack Tuna): A smaller tuna species that was plentiful in Hawaiʻi waters.
• Opelu (Mackerel Scad): Often caught in large schools, making it ideal for drying and storing.
Fish were typically dried on raised platforms called “lana” to keep them away from animals. They were placed in direct sunlight and turned regularly to ensure even drying. In some cases, fish were smoked over a low fire to enhance flavor and aid in preservation.
Here’s where you can find locally made jerky on each of the Hawaiʻi’s islands:
• Hawaiian Jerky Company: Found in Honolulu, this company offers a wide range of flavors, including teriyaki, spicy, and traditional Hawaiian-style jerky.
• Tamura’s Market: Multiple locations around the island, known for their selection of local foods, including various brands of Hawaiian-made jerky.
• Aloha Edibles: Based in Honolulu, they specialize in unique jerky flavors infused with local ingredients.
• Ulupalakua Ranch Store: Located in Kula, this store offers jerky made from cattle raised on their own ranch, providing a true taste of Maui.
• Maui Cattle Company: Available at various farmers’ markets and local stores, they offer high-quality beef jerky made from local cattle.
• Hilo Farmers Market: A great place to find a variety of local products, including jerky made by local vendors.
• Big Island Beef: Available in stores around the island, they produce jerky from cattle raised on their ranch.
• KTA Super Stores: With multiple locations, these stores carry a wide range of local products, including jerky from local brands.
• Hanalei Taro & Juice Co.: Located in Hanalei, this company offers taro-based products and a variety of locally made snacks, including jerky.
• Koloa Rum Company: In addition to their famous rum, they offer specialty snacks, including jerky with tropical flavors.
• Local Farmers Markets: While specific jerky producers may not have a large presence, local markets often feature homemade and small-batch jerky products.
• Hotel Gift Shops: Resorts and hotels may carry locally made jerky from nearby producers or larger Hawaiʻi brands.
• Kumu Farms: This farm produces a variety of local products and sometimes offers jerky made from locally sourced meats.
• Local Markets: Small stores and markets around the island often stock jerky made by local residents or small producers.
National Jerky Day is a perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy the diverse and flavorful jerky options available in Hawaiʻi. Each island offers its unique take on this popular snack, with local producers incorporating traditional and tropical flavors to create something truly special.
Whether you’re visiting a local market, a ranch store, or a specialty shop, you’re sure to find delicious jerky that showcases the best of Hawaiʻi’s ingredients and culinary creativity.