Welcome to The Island Spirit Kitchen
Aloha and welcome to The Island Spirit Kitchen, where everyday creativity meets the rich flavors of Kōloa Rum in both cocktails and cooking. I’m Nicole, a recipe creator, author, and proud Kaua‘i local, here to guide you on how to turn your favorite bottle of rum into spirited moments in the kitchen.
Here in this newsletter, you’ll find approachable, flavor-forward recipes designed to help you stir, shake, sauté, and share the island spirit. From refreshing tropical cocktails to savory meals and sweet treats, this ever-growing archive celebrates the versatility of rum in the kitchen, and the joy of building community through food.
This project started with a simple spark. One day while baking cookies, I added a splash of Kōloa Cacao Rum. The result? Pure magic. Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and kissed with a deep mocha flavor. That spontaneous moment led me on a journey to discover just how much richness and creativity rum can bring to everyday cooking.
Working in the Kōloa Rum Tasting Room has only deepened that passion. As I chat with visitors, not just about making delicious cocktails, but also about how rum enhances food, I see their excitement grow. Most people have never thought to cook with rum… but once they taste the possibilities, they light up.
So I’m here to say: YES, you can cook with rum, and it’s going to surprise and delight you!
This newsletter is my creative home and a place to connect with rum enthusiasts, home cooks, food lovers, and curious spirits like you. Together, we’ll explore how rum can be more than just a cocktail ingredient, it can become a trusted staple that adds warmth, depth, and a little island magic to your table.
What You’ll Find Here
Classic, rum-infused, family friendly, approachable recipes
Cocktails and Drinks infused with tropical flair
Sweet and savory dishes for everyday meals and special occasions
A flavor-first, no-fuss cooking style grounded in island inspiration
Pairing Guides and Culinary Tips in each Recipe
A growing community centered around creativity, curiosity, and the warmth of aloha
Ways to Subscribe:
You can enjoy The Island Spirit Kitchen in three ways:
1. Free Subscription – Get access to occasional recipes and updates.
2. Paid Subscription – Unlock full access to all recipes, tips, and features.
3. Spirited Supporter - Support this project at a higher level and receive a copy of Nicole’s new book The Island Spirit: The Ultimate Guide to Rum-Infused Cocktails and Cuisine (a $90 value)
For more information on joining this growing community, please visit our Subscription Benefits page or subscribe below.
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Join the Community
Be part of a growing community of people who love flavor, creativity, and discovering something new. Comment on posts, share your own kitchen moments, or help this project by becoming a Spirited Supporter.
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A Friendly Note on Cooking and Responsibility
At The Island Spirit Kitchen, everything I share is meant to spark joy, creativity, and connection in your kitchen. I love exploring the vibrant ways rum can enhance both cocktails and cuisine, from savory meals to sweet treats. That said, it’s important to remember that every body is different.
I’m not a dietitian, doctor, or medical professional, just a passionate recipe creator sharing what I love.
For full details, please see my Disclaimer Policy
Mahalo nui loa for being here, I’m so glad you’re part of this cooking community, now lets have fun and add some island spirit to your Kitchen!
— Nicole
