Traditional Hawaiian Lau-Lau Recipe

4 stars
3.73 (16)
Traditional Hawaiian Lau-Lau Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
120 mins
Total Time:
140mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 17, 2023

Indulge in the flavors of the Hawaiian islands with this traditional lau-lau recipe. Lau-lau is a delicious dish made with pork, fish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and cooked to perfection. The savory flavors of the meat and the earthy taste of the taro leaves come together to create a mouthwatering flavor explosion. Whether you're hosting a luau or simply want to explore the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii, this lau-lau recipe is a must-try. Follow the step-by-step directions below and enjoy a taste of paradise.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds pork butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1 pound butterfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 pound taro leaves, stems removed
  • 4-6 ti leaves, rib removed
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Banana leaves, for wrapping

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the pork butt, butterfish fillets, and chicken thighs. Season with sea salt to taste.
  2. Take a taro leaf and place a ti leaf on top of it. This will help to keep the lau-lau moist and add flavor to the dish.
  3. Place a portion of the meat mixture in the center of the ti leaf.
  4. Fold the taro leaf around the meat, creating a package. Use the ti leaves to secure the lau-lau.
  5. Repeat the process until all the meat is used.
  6. Preheat a large pot or steamer. Add water to the pot, about 2 inches deep.
  7. Place the wrapped lau-lau in the pot or steamer, making sure they are not touching the water.
  8. Cover the pot or steamer and cook the lau-lau for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the taro leaves are soft.
  9. Carefully remove the lau-lau from the pot or steamer and let them cool slightly.
  10. Unwrap the lau-lau and serve hot.

Interesting Facts

  • Lau-lau is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is commonly served at luaus and other special occasions.
  • Taro leaves, also known as luau leaves, are an essential ingredient in lau-lau. They are rich in nutrients and have a unique flavor.
  • The ti leaves used to wrap the lau-lau not only add flavor but also help to keep the meat moist during the cooking process.
  • Lau-lau can be made with different types of meat, such as pork, fish, or chicken.
  • The slow steaming process used to cook the lau-lau allows the flavors to meld together and gives the meat a tender texture.