My air conditioner broke down last weekend and won't be fixed until maybe Thursday, just as temperatures are projected to reach the 90's and 100's this week...Alright, life, I'll swing at your curveball...I bought those nifty window fans, positioned every electric fan that I could find in the house, and made sure that my ice maker's "Quick Ice" feature was functioning properly...whatever it takes to keep my house from feeling like an over-sized dry sauna. And not just for myself, but the little ones as well. A hot, cranky 5-year-old and 3-year-old are no fun!
As I was thinking of different frosty treats to distract them with, Hawaiian shave ice was one of the first to pop in my head. I've had plenty of shave ice all across the islands, from Matsumoto's rich tradition in Oahu to the imaginative creations at Ono Ono in Kaua'i. Sweet, flavorful, and homemade syrups are poured over refreshing ice. Many of them are inspired by the seasonal fruits grown locally right on the island. I quickly gave in to this idea, while the summer's fruits are ripe for the picking and a refuge from the scorching heat is so desperately needed, to find a tasty oasis in shave ice!
