How To Eat Lau Lau

What is Lau Lau?

Lau Lau is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with pork, fish, or chicken, wrapped in taro leaves and then steamed to perfection. It’s a beloved dish in Hawaiian cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings.

How to Eat Lau Lau

When it comes to enjoying Lau Lau, there are a few key steps to keep in mind to fully savor the flavors and textures of this delicious dish. Here’s a simple guide on how to eat Lau Lau:

1. Unwrap the Lau Lau

Start by carefully unwrapping the outer leaves of the Lau Lau. The leaves are used to steam the filling, so they may be moist and tender. Be gentle to avoid tearing the leaves and revealing the filling inside.

2. Discard the Ti Leaves

Once you’ve unwrapped the outer leaves, you’ll likely find ti leaves underneath. These leaves are used to wrap the Lau Lau for steaming and are not meant to be eaten. Simply discard the ti leaves and focus on the inner contents.

3. Enjoy the Filling

Now that the Lau Lau is unwrapped and the ti leaves are removed, you can dig into the flavorful filling. Whether it’s pork, fish, or chicken, take a moment to appreciate the tender, juicy meat and the blend of seasonings that infuse the dish with rich, savory flavors.

4. Pair with Accompaniments

Lau Lau is often enjoyed with accompaniments such as steamed rice, poi (a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro), or lomi lomi salmon (a side dish made with salted salmon, tomatoes, and onions). These accompaniments complement the Lau Lau and enhance the overall dining experience.

5. Embrace the Traditional Experience

As you savor each bite of Lau Lau, take a moment to appreciate the cultural significance of this beloved Hawaiian dish. Lau Lau is not just a meal; it’s a representation of tradition, community, and the spirit of aloha.

Tips for Eating Lau Lau

Here are a few additional tips to enhance your Lau Lau dining experience:

Use Your Hands: While utensils can be used, many people prefer to eat Lau Lau with their hands to fully connect with the food and its cultural roots.
Experiment with Condiments: Some individuals enjoy adding a touch of soy sauce or chili pepper water to their Lau Lau for an extra kick of flavor.
Savor Each Bite: Take your time and savor each bite of Lau Lau, allowing the flavors to unfold and the experience to be truly enjoyable.

Conclusion

Eating Lau Lau is not just about nourishing the body; it’s about celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Hawaii and embracing the sense of community and tradition that comes with this beloved dish. By following these simple steps and tips, you can fully appreciate the experience of eating Lau Lau and savor every delicious bite.

Want to learn more about the traditional Hawaiian dish lau lau and share your experiences preparing or eating it? Join the discussion in the World Cuisines forum and let’s explore this delicious part of Hawaiian culture together!

FAQ:

What is Lau Lau and how is it traditionally prepared?

Lau Lau is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with pork, fish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and then steamed until tender. The meat is typically seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt and sometimes a little bit of butter or coconut milk before being wrapped in the leaves. The entire package is then wrapped in ti leaves and steamed until the flavors meld together.

What is the best way to unwrap and eat Lau Lau?

To unwrap Lau Lau, carefully remove the outer ti leaves and then unwrap the taro leaves. The meat inside should be moist and flavorful from the steaming process. You can eat the meat and taro leaves together, or some people prefer to remove the meat from the leaves and eat them separately.

Can Lau Lau be eaten with any condiments or side dishes?

Lau Lau is traditionally enjoyed on its own, as the flavors of the meat and taro leaves are quite rich and satisfying. However, some people like to enjoy it with a side of poi (mashed taro root) or lomi lomi salmon (a tomato and salmon salad). These sides complement the flavors of Lau Lau without overpowering them.

Are there any specific etiquette or customs associated with eating Lau Lau?

When eating Lau Lau, it’s customary to eat it with your hands. The tender meat and taro leaves are easily pulled apart, and using your hands allows you to savor the flavors and textures of the dish. Additionally, it’s polite to eat Lau Lau with respect and appreciation for the traditional Hawaiian preparation and ingredients.

Can Lau Lau be reheated if there are leftovers?

Lau Lau can be easily reheated by steaming it again. Simply wrap the Lau Lau in ti leaves or aluminum foil and steam it until it’s heated through. This helps to retain the moisture and flavors of the dish, ensuring that it tastes just as delicious as when it was first prepared.

Are there any variations or modern twists on traditional Lau Lau preparation?

While the traditional Lau Lau is made with pork, fish, or chicken, some modern variations may include different types of meat or additional seasonings. Some chefs may experiment with adding spices or herbs to the meat before wrapping it in the taro leaves, creating unique flavor profiles while still honoring the essence of the traditional dish.

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