Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi

Watch Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi

  • 1992
  • 6 Seasons

Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi was a cooking show hosted by acclaimed Hawaiian chef, Roy Yamaguchi. The series aired on television from 1992 to 1997, featuring a total of 52 episodes. Each episode ran for half an hour and showcased Yamaguchi's unique culinary style as he took viewers on a journey through Hawaii’s unique and diverse cuisine.

Yamaguchi, who is of Japanese ancestry, was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, and his cooking style was heavily influenced by the local culture and ingredients of the islands. He is well-known for pioneering Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine, which blends flavors and techniques from various cultures such as Asia, Europe, and the United States, with locally-sourced Hawaiian ingredients.

Throughout the series, viewers were treated to a glimpse into Yamaguchi’s world as he expertly crafted dishes using fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local vegetables. He also showcased the art of plating and presentation, making each dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

In addition to sharing his recipes, Yamaguchi also shared his culinary knowledge, discussing the history and cultural significance of certain ingredients and dishes. He often invited guest chefs from diverse backgrounds to join him in the kitchen, creating a unique intersection of food and culture.

The show's production values were high, with beautiful shots of Hawaii’s scenic landscapes and its bustling food markets. Viewers could also see Yamaguchi in action as he cooked in various settings such as a beautiful beachfront restaurant or a farm where he picked his own fresh ingredients.

One aspect of the show that stood out was the attention paid to nutrition and healthy cooking. Yamaguchi often explained the nutritional values of various ingredients, including their health benefits. He also provided healthier alternatives to traditional ingredients or cooking methods.

Yamaguchi also focused on the importance of sustainable cooking and highlighted the importance of reducing food waste, energy conservation, and recycling. This was particularly noteworthy, given his love and respect for the environment and the islands' beauty.

The show was a hit with viewers, and Yamaguchi soon became a household name across Hawaii and beyond. He brought Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine to the mainstream, with his signature dishes like sashimi tacos, Asian-style ahi poke bowl, and kiawe-smoked duck breast. Yamaguchi’s unique style of cooking and his passion for local ingredients have inspired a whole generation of chefs to embrace Hawaiian cuisine.

In conclusion, Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi was an educational, informative, and entertaining cooking show that celebrated the unique and vibrant flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. Through Yamaguchi's skillful and inspiring cooking demonstrations, viewers gained a deeper appreciation for the culture, traditions, and ingredients that make Hawaii's cuisine so special. The show's fascinating insights into the world of Fusion Cuisine, coupled with Yamaguchi’s infectious enthusiasm, turned it into a must-watch cooking series for any food lover.

Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi is a series that is currently running and has 6 seasons (71 episodes). The series first aired on January 1, 1992.

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Seasons
Tiki Party
13. Tiki Party
April 1, 1997
Roy and Chuck enjoy an afternoon of research for a 'Tiki' themed backyard party. An unpredictable afternoon of tropical bliss ensues when they visit the Tommy Bahama Bar, the La Mariana Yacht Club, Alan Wong's Pineapple Room, and the famous Halekulani for Mai Tais, pineapple martinis and laughter. Chuck also joins Roy in the kitchen to prepare his succulent lamb chop pupu.
Sake and Rice
12. Sake and Rice
April 1, 1997
Hawaii Cooks ventures to Portland, Oregon, and visits a premium sake brewery. Japanese chef-owner Kesuke "Casey" Asai of Imanas Tei Restaurant joins Roy in the kitchen to prepare a simple and tasty dish that is a perfect accompaniment to sake.
Going Fishin'
11. Going Fishin'
April 1, 1997
From sacred Hawaiian fishponds to the modern tanks of fish farms at the Big Island's Ocean Science and Technology Park, raising quality seafood has always been a priority in Hawaii. Hawaii Cooks examines farm-raised seafood with a look at how both traditional techniques and current aquaculture methods are helping to develop a steady supply of superior fish and shellfish.
Future Chefs
10. Future Chefs
April 1, 1997
The future of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement is well in the hands of a number of up-and-coming chefs. Hawaii Cooks examines a high school culinary program at Leilehua High School as well as a collegiate level program at Leeward Community College that are making sure a steady stream of qualified culinary professionals continue to fill the industry.
Soybean
9. Soybean
April 1, 1997
It's probably the most versatile and revered legume in Asia, while in the West, soy and soy products are being hailed only now for their health benefits. From bean to tofu, Hawaii Cooks looks at the many ways soybeans are utilized in the islands.
Sugar and Honey
8. Sugar and Honey
April 1, 1997
Sticky sweetness highlights this segment of Hawaii Cooks. A visit to Manoa Honey Company reveals how this golden by-product of bees is harvested, while at the same time ensuring that Hawaii's agricultural industry remains pollinated. Although sugar once dominated the agricultural landscape in Hawaii, sugar production has now dwindled down to two locations on Kauai and Maui.
Noodle Adventure
7. Noodle Adventure
April 1, 1997
Roy's quest to find the ultimate noodle dish leads him to sample the best noodle dishes around the state. First stop is To Chau in Chinatown where Roy meets up with Thanh Mougeot, who explains the wonders of this Vietnamese soup noodle dish. Chuck Furuya teams up with Roy on Maui for a bowl of saimin at Kitada's Restaurant and a tour of the Iwamoto Natto and Noodle Factory.
Mango Mania
6. Mango Mania
April 1, 1997
Mangoes arrived in Hawaii in the early 1800s and have exploded into an important local crop with numerous varieties now readily available. Roy and guest chef Ronnie Nasuti of Roy's Hawaii Kai take a tour of a unique mango farm that is growing exceptionally tasty mangoes while consistently experimenting with new varieties.
Salt and Pepper
5. Salt and Pepper
April 1, 1997
When you talk about flavoring, nothing is more basic than salt and pepper. Salt in Hawaii is especially valued where it is still being harvested near the sea in a traditional manner handed down for generations. A closer look at the pepper plant also reveals how this valuable spice is being grown in parts of the Pacific.
Pasta and Tomatoes
4. Pasta and Tomatoes
April 1, 1997
Fresh and simple ingredients combine to make the most satisfying meals. And, what could be more satisfying than fresh pasta and vine-ripened tomatoes. Hawaii Cooks visits C&C Pasta Co., a quaint restaurant and deli, where fresh pasta is the featured item, and Roy checks out Green Growers Farm, a unique hydroponic tomato farm that is churning out fresh-off-the-vine heirloom tomatoes.
Chinese New Year
3. Chinese New Year
April 1, 1997
Kung Hee Fat Choy! Hawaii Cooks celebrates Chinese New Year with a trip into Chinatown and examines the delicious food and festivities that mark this holiday. Guest chef and Chinese restaurateur, Leeann Chin, joins Roy in the kitchen to prepare a traditional shrimp and tofu dish while discussing the significance of food and this auspicious celebration in Chinese culture.
Chocolate and Vanilla
2. Chocolate and Vanilla
April 1, 1997
Chocolate and vanilla may be the two most popular types of ice cream, but they are also two very important specialty crops being grown on the Big Island, the only place in the United States. Hawaii Cooks visits The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory and Hawaiian Vanilla Company. Guest chefs, brothers Philippe and Pierre Padovani of Padovani's Bistro, join Roy in the kitchen.
Fish and Ginger
1. Fish and Ginger
April 1, 1997
Two staple ingredients that define fresh Asian-inspired, seafood dishes are the focus of this show. First, Roy visits the renowned Tamashiro Market for tips on choosing and cooking with fresh island fish. Then a visit to a Big Island ginger farm reveals how this valuable root is grown and harvested on local soil.
Description
Where to Watch Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi
Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi is available for streaming on the Janson Media website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Hawaii Cooks with Roy Yamaguchi on demand at Amazon and Tubi TV.
  • Premiere Date
    January 1, 1992