Lau lau, a traditional Hawaiian dish, has been a staple in the islands’ cuisine for centuries. This steamed bundle of goodness is a culinary delight that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. But have you ever wondered what lau lau is made of? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, ingredients, and preparation of lau lau, giving you a deeper appreciation for this beloved Hawaiian dish.
A Brief History of Lau Lau
Lau lau has its roots in ancient Hawaiian cuisine, dating back to the early 19th century. The dish is believed to have originated from the traditional Hawaiian method of cooking food in an underground oven, or imu. The word “lau lau” literally means “leaf wrapped” in Hawaiian, which refers to the use of taro leaves to wrap the food.
During the early days of Hawaiian settlement, lau lau was a staple food for special occasions and ceremonies. The dish was typically made with pork, beef, or chicken, wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection. The use of taro leaves not only added flavor but also helped to retain moisture and heat during the cooking process.
The Ingredients of Lau Lau
So, what is lau lau made of? The ingredients may vary depending on the recipe and personal preferences, but here are the traditional components of lau lau:
Meat
- Pork: Pork is the most common meat used in lau lau, and it’s usually pork shoulder or pork butt that’s used.
- Beef: Beef is another popular option, and it’s often used in combination with pork.
- Chicken: Chicken is also used in some lau lau recipes, especially in modern variations.
Taro Leaves
- Taro leaves: Taro leaves are the signature ingredient of lau lau, and they’re used to wrap the meat and other ingredients.
- Luau leaves: Luau leaves are also used in some recipes, especially in combination with taro leaves.
Other Ingredients
- Onions: Onions are sautéed with the meat to add flavor and texture.
- Garlic: Garlic is also sautéed with the meat to add depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper are used to season the meat and other ingredients.
- Water: Water is used to steam the lau lau to perfection.
The Preparation of Lau Lau
Preparing lau lau is a labor of love that requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making lau lau:
Preparing the Meat
- Cut the meat into small pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re softened.
- Add the meat to the pan and cook until it’s browned.
Preparing the Taro Leaves
- Choose fresh taro leaves with no signs of wilting or damage.
- Blanch the taro leaves in boiling water to remove bitterness.
- Cut the taro leaves into large pieces, removing the stem and any tough veins.
Assembling the Lau Lau
- Lay a taro leaf flat on a work surface.
- Place a few pieces of meat in the center of the leaf.
- Add a few onions and garlic on top of the meat.
- Fold the taro leaf over the filling, making sure to seal the edges.
- Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used up.
Steaming the Lau Lau
- Place the lau lau in a steamer basket, leaving some space between each bundle.
- Steam the lau lau over boiling water for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the taro leaves are soft.
Variations of Lau Lau
While traditional lau lau is made with pork, beef, or chicken, modern variations have introduced new ingredients and flavors. Some popular variations include:
Vegetarian Lau Lau
- Use tofu, tempeh, or seitan instead of meat.
- Add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Seafood Lau Lau
- Use shrimp, fish, or squid instead of meat.
- Add more seafood like mussels, clams, and scallops.
Spicy Lau Lau
- Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the meat mixture.
- Use spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Lau lau is a beloved Hawaiian dish that’s rich in history and culture. With its unique combination of meat, taro leaves, and steaming process, lau lau is a culinary delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, lau lau is a dish that’s worth trying. So go ahead, unwrap the flavors of Hawaii, and experience the magic of lau lau for yourself.
Recipe: Traditional Lau Lau
Here’s a simple recipe for traditional lau lau:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups taro leaves
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the meat and onions as described above.
- Prepare the taro leaves as described above.
- Assemble the lau lau by placing a few pieces of meat in the center of a taro leaf, adding a few onions and garlic, and folding the leaf over the filling.
- Steam the lau lau over boiling water for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the taro leaves are soft.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Note: This recipe makes 4-6 lau lau bundles, depending on the size of the taro leaves and the amount of filling.
What is Lau Lau and its significance in Hawaiian cuisine?
Lau Lau is a traditional Hawaiian dish that consists of pork, beef, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves. The dish is significant in Hawaiian cuisine as it represents the cultural and culinary heritage of the islands. The preparation and sharing of Lau Lau are often associated with special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays.
The dish is also a reflection of the resourcefulness and adaptability of the Hawaiian people, who used the abundant taro leaves and other local ingredients to create a unique and flavorful meal. Today, Lau Lau remains a popular dish in Hawaiian cuisine, and its significance extends beyond its taste and aroma to represent the rich cultural traditions of the islands.
What are the main ingredients used in making Lau Lau?
The main ingredients used in making Lau Lau include pork, beef, or chicken, which are wrapped in taro leaves. The protein is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices before being wrapped in the leaves. The taro leaves are usually fresh and are selected for their size, shape, and flavor. Other ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and ginger, may also be added to enhance the flavor of the dish.
In addition to the protein and taro leaves, Lau Lau may also include other ingredients, such as fish or seafood, which are wrapped in the leaves along with the protein. The dish is typically steamed or cooked in an underground oven, or imu, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The combination of ingredients and cooking methods used in making Lau Lau results in a dish that is both flavorful and aromatic.
How is Lau Lau traditionally prepared and cooked?
Lau Lau is traditionally prepared by wrapping the protein and other ingredients in taro leaves, which are then steamed or cooked in an underground oven, or imu. The preparation of Lau Lau is often a communal effort, with family members and friends gathering to help with the wrapping and cooking of the dish. The taro leaves are typically wrapped around the protein in a specific way, with the stem end of the leaf facing outward.
Once the Lau Lau is wrapped, it is placed in a steamer basket or directly on the rocks in the imu. The dish is then steamed or cooked for several hours, which allows the flavors to meld together and the taro leaves to infuse the protein with their unique flavor and aroma. The resulting dish is tender, flavorful, and aromatic, with a unique texture that is both soft and slightly crunchy.
What is the cultural significance of Lau Lau in Hawaiian tradition?
Lau Lau holds significant cultural and spiritual meaning in Hawaiian tradition. The dish is often served at special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays, and is considered a symbol of love, respect, and hospitality. The preparation and sharing of Lau Lau are also seen as a way of strengthening family bonds and reinforcing community ties.
In Hawaiian tradition, Lau Lau is also associated with the concept of “ohana,” or family, which emphasizes the importance of relationships and community. The dish is often served at family gatherings and is seen as a way of nourishing both the body and the spirit. The cultural significance of Lau Lau extends beyond its taste and aroma to represent the values and traditions of the Hawaiian people.
Can Lau Lau be made with alternative ingredients or variations?
Yes, Lau Lau can be made with alternative ingredients or variations. While traditional Lau Lau is made with pork, beef, or chicken, modern variations may include other proteins, such as fish or tofu, which are wrapped in taro leaves. Other ingredients, such as vegetables or spices, may also be added to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Some variations of Lau Lau may also use alternative leaves, such as spinach or collard greens, instead of taro leaves. However, the use of taro leaves is an essential part of traditional Lau Lau, and their unique flavor and aroma are considered an integral part of the dish. Despite these variations, the core concept of Lau Lau remains the same – a delicious and aromatic dish that is wrapped in leaves and steamed or cooked to perfection.
How is Lau Lau typically served and consumed in Hawaiian cuisine?
Lau Lau is typically served and consumed in Hawaiian cuisine as a main dish, often accompanied by other traditional dishes, such as poi, kalua pig, and haupia. The dish is usually served steaming hot, with the taro leaves still wrapped around the protein. The leaves are typically removed before eating, and the protein is served with the flavorful liquid that has accumulated during cooking.
In Hawaiian cuisine, Lau Lau is often served at special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays, and is considered a symbol of love, respect, and hospitality. The dish is also served at family gatherings and is seen as a way of nourishing both the body and the spirit. The traditional way of serving Lau Lau emphasizes the importance of sharing food and company with others, which is a core value in Hawaiian culture.
Can Lau Lau be found in restaurants or stores outside of Hawaii?
Yes, Lau Lau can be found in restaurants or stores outside of Hawaii, particularly in areas with a large Hawaiian or Pacific Islander population. Many Hawaiian restaurants and food establishments offer Lau Lau as part of their menu, and some stores may carry pre-made or frozen Lau Lau that can be cooked at home.
However, the authenticity and quality of Lau Lau may vary depending on the restaurant or store. Traditional Lau Lau is made with fresh taro leaves and other local ingredients, which may not be readily available outside of Hawaii. As a result, some variations of Lau Lau may use alternative ingredients or cooking methods that differ from the traditional recipe. Despite these variations, Lau Lau remains a popular dish that is enjoyed by people around the world.