If you’ve been to an authentic luau, you’ve probably seen lau lau on the table. A staple of Native Hawaiian cuisine and culture, this savory dish requires immense care and dedication to cook. If you’re curious about this traditional entree, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Lau Lau?

Meaning

Derived from an ancient Polynesian word meaning “leaf,” lau lau literally means “leaf leaf.” The name refers to the taro and ti leaves that are used in the dish. Both plants are sacred in Hawaii and can be found in traditional ceremonies, herbal remedies, and throughout Hawaiian cuisine.

Preparing

Lau lau is prepared with a few large chunks of pork shoulder and a piece of fish, typically cod or butterfish. The proteins are lightly salted and tightly wrapped in taro leaves then bundled again in ti leaves. These leaves are thick and require a bit of strength and skill to tie. Each bundle is intended for one person, so this difficult process must be repeated to create enough for everyone.

Cooking

The lau lau is steamed for about four hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop, thoroughly cooks the toxic raw taro leaves, and ensures the meat stays tender and moist. Traditionally, the steaming is done in an imu, an underground oven.

Serving

Once the bundles are cooked and removed from the imu, the outer ti leaves are cut and discarded. Lau lau is usually paired with plain white rice, but it can also be eaten alongside other types of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, like pūlehu chicken or kālua pua'a.

If you’re interested in attending a luau with authentic lau lau and other delicious foods from Hawaiian cuisine, visit the team at Experience Nutridge in Honolulu, HI. These professionals offer an immersive cultural experience where guests will learn about the ancient Hawaiian lifestyle, enjoy a hula show, and help prepare food for the imu. View their menu online, or call (808) 531-5050 to book your reservation.