Ono Butter Mochi: A Hawaiian Dessert Guide

Ono Butter Mochi is a traditional Hawaiian dessert, celebrated for its unique texture and flavor. Influenced by Japanese mochi, it incorporates local Hawaiian ingredients, blending cultures and tastes. This dessert holds a special place in Hawaiian cuisine, often featured at family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations.

1. Sweet Rice Flour (Mochiko): Provides the signature chewy texture.
2. Butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor.
3. Coconut Milk: Enhances the tropical taste.
4. Sugar: Balances the sweetness.
5. Eggs: Contributes to the custard-like consistency.
6. Baking Powder: Helps the mochi to rise slightly.

Taste Profile of Ono Butter Mochi

Texture and Flavor

Ono Butter Mochi offers a distinctive sensory experience. It combines a chewy texture from Mochiko, typical in Japanese mochi, with a creamy richness from butter. Coconut milk contributes a nutty, tropical flavor, making each bite unique. The dessert balances sweetness and butteriness, resulting in complex layers of taste. Eggs add a custard-like consistency, while baking powder ensures a slight, airy rise. This blend of ingredients creates a harmonious and delightful texture and flavor profile.

Comparison with Traditional Mochi

Traditional mochi, made from pounded glutinous rice, is typically chewy and plain. Ono Butter Mochi, however, integrates butter and coconut milk for added richness. Traditional mochi is often enjoyed as a simple snack or dessert, sometimes filled with sweet beans, while Ono Butter Mochi stands out with its fusion of buttery and tropical tastes. This version’s uniqueness lies in its Hawaiian twist, which adds a distinct creaminess and nuanced flavor not found in traditional Japanese mochi.

How to Make Ono Butter Mochi at Home

Necessary Ingredients

To make Ono Butter Mochi at home, gather the following ingredients:

• Sweet Rice Flour (Mochiko): 2 cups
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Coconut Milk: 1 can (13.5 ounces)
• Evaporated Milk: 1 can (12 ounces)
• Eggs: 4, large
• Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Prepare Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
3. Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine sweet rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, stirring thoroughly.
4. Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix coconut milk, evaporated milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Mixtures: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a uniform batter forms.
6. Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the mochi to cool in the pan before cutting it into squares.

Follow these steps to create the perfect Ono Butter Mochi with its characteristic chewy, creamy texture.

Where to Find Ono Butter Mochi

Stores and Online Retailers

You can find Ono Butter Mochi in many local Hawaiian stores, particularly those that specialize in Asian or Hawaiian cuisine. Look for well-stocked sections with Hawaiian snacks and bakery items. Some national grocery chains like Safeway and Foodland often carry this treat in their Hawaiian branches.

Online retailers like Amazon and specialty food websites also offer Ono Butter Mochi. Search for reputable sellers to ensure quality and authenticity. Be sure to check customer reviews and ratings to make an informed purchase.

Popular Bakeries and Eateries

Many Hawaiian bakeries and eateries serve freshly made Ono Butter Mochi. One notable example is “Liliha Bakery” in Honolulu, renowned for its wide array of Hawaiian pastries, including butter mochi. Another popular spot, “Lin’s Hawaiian Snacks,” also offers delicious variations of this dessert.

Small cafes and food stalls at local markets frequently have Ono Butter Mochi. Visit farmers markets like the Kapiolani Community College Farmers Market, where local vendors showcase homemade versions of this beloved treat. Check the menus of other Hawaiian eateries, as butter mochi is a popular dessert item.

Health and Nutritional Information

Calorie Content

Understanding the calorie content of Ono Butter Mochi is essential for dietary planning. A standard serving of Ono Butter Mochi typically contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. The blend of butter, sugar, and coconut milk contributes to the calorie density, which makes this dessert energy-rich.

Dietary Considerations

When consuming Ono Butter Mochi, various dietary considerations might be relevant. Ono Butter Mochi contains dairy products and eggs, impacting those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. The dessert also requires sweet rice flour (Mochiko), making it gluten-free and suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. However, individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies should always check ingredient labels or consult with the preparer to ensure suitability for their diets.

Conclusion

Ono Butter Mochi is more than just a dessert; it’s a delicious fusion of cultures that brings a unique taste experience to your table. With its chewy texture and rich, creamy flavor, this Hawaiian treat is sure to impress. Whether you’re making it at home or finding it at local stores and online retailers, Ono Butter Mochi offers a delightful way to enjoy a piece of Hawaiian tradition. Enjoy the culinary adventure and savor every bite of this extraordinary dessert.