Saimin

Saimin is a delectable noodle soup originating from Hawaii. It is typically made with tender wheat egg noodles immersed in a hot dashi broth and garnished with green onions and kamaboko (a type of fish cake). Nowadays, you might find saimin enhanced with additions like char siu (barbecue pork), Spam, egg, or nori (seaweed). The broth usually acquires its depth from kombu (kelp) and dried shrimp, and you can spice it up with condiments like Chinese hot mustard and shoyu (soy sauce).

Saimin has a rich history dating back to Hawaii's plantation days. It’s a dish born from the melting pot of cultures—Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Portuguese—who worked together on the islands. These diverse influences merged in communal meals, giving rise to saimin.

The name "saimin" is a blend of Chinese words, though its exact origin remains somewhat enigmatic. Some believe Japanese immigrants created it, attempting to emulate ramen with the ingredients available in Hawaii. Regardless of its beginnings, saimin became a hit during the plantation era and has since established itself in Hawaiian cuisine, available everywhere from fast food joints to upscale restaurants.

In the early days, saimin was sold from mobile wagons before finding permanent homes in fixed locations. These saimin stands appeared near sports venues and schools, becoming a popular late-night snack. Even though other noodle dishes have emerged, saimin holds a special place in the hearts of many Hawaiians as a nostalgic comfort food.

Some of the top places to enjoy saimin in Hawaii include Dillingham Saimin, Palace Saimin, Shiro's Saimin Haven, and Sekiya's Restaurant & Delicatessen. Even McDonald's joined the trend, adding saimin to its Hawaii menu in the late 1960s. S&S Saimin, an instant noodle brand, has also helped maintain saimin's popularity.

There are also fun variations! Swap out the noodles for udon, and you get saidon. Or skip the soup altogether and opt for fried saimin, which is like a Hawaiian twist on yakisoba or lo mein. These different versions showcase just how versatile and beloved saimin truly is.