Since the first Polynesian people arrived on the Hawaiian islands, they came up with innovative methods for preparing and serving food. An imu, often used to cook for luau, is still used today. Whether you’re visiting Hawaii or live there permanently, eating food cooked in an imu is an enriching Hawaiian cultural experience that will help you fully appreciate the people’s history and way of life.

What Is an Imu?

An imu is a circular pit between two and four feet deep and at least as many feet wide. Since it’s often used to make meals for large groups who attend luau, it must be big enough to cook medium-sized animals and multiple foods at once. Grass, banana leaves, ti leaves, wood, cardboard, or newspaper lines the bottom as kindling, supporting a layer of rocks. When lit for about five hours, the kindling heats up the rocks, which are then spread around the bottom.

More vegetation and leaves are then laid over the rocks, producing steam. The food goes on top of that inside a wire basket along with any desired flavoring or seasoning. Finally, the food and pit are covered with more leaves, a tarp or strip of burlap, and dirt. The food is ready to eat after about six to nine hours.

An imu is essentially an underground oven or steam cooker. It relies on trapping heat and steam to cook and flavor food while requiring little effort or supervision beyond the preparation process.

What Does an Imu Cook?

Traditionally, luau dinners include pork, chicken, fish, or turkey prepared inside an imu. However, an imu can also cook yams, eggplants, breadfruit, rice, sweet potatoes, poi, and many other staples of Hawaiian cuisine. 

To find out what it’s like to eat from an imu, attend a luau at Experience Nutridge in Honolulu, HI. As one of the most historic sites on the islands, they proudly offer a unique taste of Hawaiian culture and traditions. For visitors with dietary restrictions, they can customize the food prepared in the imu, so everyone has something delicious to eat. Cocktails and a breathtaking sunset view complement each meal. For details, call them today at (808) 531-5050 or message them online.