Watch Ingredients: Hawaii

Ingredients: Hawaii is a visually stunning documentary that showcases the unique and diverse culinary landscape of Hawaii. This 2012 film delves deep into the various cultural influences that have contributed to Hawaii's rich and flavorful cuisine, exploring the history and traditions of the islands through the lens of food. Director Robert Bates and producer Stephen Lee explore Hawaii's many different cultures and how they have fused together to create a one-of-a-kind food scene. The film features interviews with farmers, chefs, fishermen, and other food experts, who discuss the important role that local ingredients play in shaping Hawaiian cuisine. The filmmakers also take viewers on a tour of various farms, farmers' markets, and restaurants, providing a behind-the-scenes look at where many of these ingredients come from and how they are used.

One of the standout themes of the film is sustainability, as the filmmakers highlight how important it is to preserve Hawaii's natural resources and support local small-scale farmers, which in turn benefits the state's economy. The film features many practices and initiatives that are helping to make Hawaii a leader in sustainability, including the use of aquaponics, which combines fish farming and vegetable gardening to create a closed loop ecosystem that is highly efficient and environmentally friendly.

The filmmakers also explore the cultural significance of food in Hawaii and how it has helped to shape the state's history and identity. The film delves into the role that taro, a starchy root vegetable, has played in Hawaiian culture, and how it is used to make traditional dishes like poi. The film also explores the influence of Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and other Asian cultures on Hawaiian cuisine, as well as the importance of luau feasts in Hawaiian tradition and the role that the pig plays in Hawaiian food culture.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to beautiful shots of Hawaii's natural beauty, from its lush rainforest canopies to its turquoise waters and white sand beaches. The stunning visual imagery serves as a backdrop to the delicious food that is showcased in the film, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the senses.

Overall, Ingredients: Hawaii is an engaging and informative documentary that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Hawaii. From exploring the cultural significance of food to showcasing the innovative sustainability practices that are being used in the state, the film provides a comprehensive look at how Hawaiian cuisine is evolving and changing with the times. Whether you are a food lover or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, this film is sure to delight and inspire.

Ingredients: Hawaii is a 2012 short with a runtime of 31 minutes.