Latest Kupu Maui Dinner Held at Manawai Estate Chocolate

By Vanessa Wolf

Courtesy image

Join Kupu Maui this Saturday, Sept. 20, for a “decadent look at a little cacao farm in Haiku.”

This comprehensive look at chocolate production is held at Manawai Estate Chocolate.

Organizers note the event will touch on the “social issues regarding large scale farming endeavors and why it is important to support the small scale farmers doing it right around the globe.”

The tour is led by Melanie Boudar of Sweet Paradise Chocolates and includes a chocolate tasting highlighting the influence on terroir on cocoa flavors. Attendees will also have an opportunity to adopt a cacao tree that helps to preserve heirloom varieties.

But wait.

Isn’t this supposed to be a dinner?

Indeed it is.

Kupu Maui is keeping the  chefs for the evening a mystery until the meal itself, but you can anticipate the following menu:

• Roasted Kabocha Pumpkin Soup with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
• Arugula Strawberry Fennel Salad with Cacao Nibs
• Chicken Mole with Corn Pudding
• White chocolate goat cheese custard with sake glazed caramel pears served with a cocoa nib tuille.
• Chocolate tasting

As with all Kupu Maui events, this one is BYOB.

That stated, for those who plan to enjoy a bottle of wine, cold beer or other drink, please also bring your own wine/bottle opener, glasses and wine/beer pouring muscles.

Kupu Maui will provide non-alcoholic beverages.

Held from 4 to 7 p.m., seating at the family-style event is limited and the event is held rain or shine.

Plan to wear casual attire, flat, comfortable shoes, and bring a sweater or jacket.

Tickets are $80 per person and tend to sell out fast. As always, proceeds go toward supporting local farmers in their pursuit of food safety and security.