What is Hawaiian Laulau Pork?

Laulau, which means “leaf-wrapped” in Hawaiian, is a traditional dish that typically features pork as the star ingredient. The dish is prepared by wrapping chunks of pork in taro leaves—a staple of Hawaiian cuisine—and steaming them in an underground oven known as an imu, or using modern steaming methods.

The result? A tender, flavourful package where the pork’s juices infuse the taro leaves, creating a rich, savoury dish that’s both hearty and healthy.

A Quick History of Laulau Pork

Laulau Pork has its roots in ancient Hawaiian cooking practices. In traditional Hawaiian culture, the imu, a pit oven filled with hot stones, was used to cook Laulau, imparting a smoky flavour to the dish.

Over time, Laulau evolved from a ceremonial food served at luaus to a beloved street food that locals and visitors enjoy. While modern cooking methods often replace the imu, the essence of Laulau—a dish that celebrates the connection between people and the land—remains unchanged.

Why Laulau Pork is a Hawaiian Street Food Favourite

1. Authenticity: Laulau Pork is one of the most authentic Hawaiian dishes you can find, offering a true taste of the islands.
   
   
2. Rich Flavours: The combination of slow-cooked pork and tender taro leaves creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
   
   
3. Portable: Wrapped in natural taro leaves, Laulau Pork is easy to carry and eat, making it ideal for street food.
   
   
4. Healthy and Nutritious: Taro leaves are packed with vitamins, and the dish is naturally gluten-free.
   
   
   

What’s Inside a Laulau Package?

Traditional Laulau Pork is simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what goes into making this Hawaiian classic:

1. Pork

• Pork shoulder or pork belly is the most common choice, offering tender, fatty cuts that cook beautifully over time.
  
  

2. Taro Leaves

• Multiple layers of luau leaves (the edible leaves of the taro plant) are wrapped around the pork. These leaves are not only delicious but also act as a natural wrapper during cooking.
  
  

3. Optional Additions

• Salted Butterfish: Adds a briny, oceanic flavor and is often included in traditional versions.
  
  
• Chicken or Beef: Modern variations sometimes swap pork for other proteins.
  
  
• Sweet Potatoes: For an added touch of sweetness and texture.
  
  
  

Cooking Method

• Traditionally, Laulau is cooked for hours in an imu. Today, steaming or pressure cooking achieves a similar tenderness and depth of flavour.

Where to Find the Best Laulau Pork in Hawaii

Laulau Pork is widely available across Hawaii, from local markets to street food stalls and even fine dining restaurants. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Oahu: Visit the historic Helena’s Hawaiian Food or Ono Hawaiian Foods for authentic Laulau.
  
  
• Maui: Try local farmer’s markets or food trucks near Lahaina for freshly steamed Laulau.
  
  
• Big Island: Enjoy Laulau at a traditional luau or street fairs in Hilo and Kona.
  
  
  

How to Eat Laulau Pork

Enjoying Laulau Pork is a simple and satisfying experience:

1. Unwrap the Leaves: The taro leaves act as a natural wrapper. Once opened, the tender pork and cooked leaves are ready to eat.
   
   
2. Pair with Side Dishes: Laulau is often served with rice, poi (a traditional Hawaiian taro paste), or lomi lomi salmon for a complete meal.
   
   
3. Add Condiments: Hawaiian hot sauce or soy sauce enhances the dish’s flavours.
   
   
   

Hawaiian Laulau Pork is a timeless dish that celebrates the flavours and traditions of the islands. Whether served at a luau, a street food stall, or your dining table, it’s a dish that brings people together with its comforting taste and cultural significance.

Next time you’re in Hawaii—or simply craving a taste of the tropics—don’t miss the chance to savour the tender, tasty magic of Laulau Pork. It’s a bite of aloha in every package!