A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast based on the concept and practice of aha'aina, or gathering for a meal. It was customary for ancient Hawaiians to celebrate special occasions and events with a feast, whether it be the birth of a child, completion of a new home or canoe, a successful harvest or victory in battle. The feast was an opportunity to honor their multitude of gods and share their celebration and good fortune with family and friends. The actual term "luau" came into popular use in the 1800s, and refers to the edible taro leaves that are traditionally used to wrap food prior to being placed in an imu (underground oven). Today in Hawaii, luaus are held for occasions of celebration (baby's first birthday party) or commencement (wedding or school graduation), or simply to gather together with family and good friends. Luaus are often held in backyards or parks under tents, decorated with ti leaves and other tropical foliage. Entertainment is usually provided by a trio or other small band of Hawaiian music performers, with guests and hosts alike being adorned with colorful and fragrant fresh flower leis. Traditional luau wear include bright and festive Hawaiian Fabric aloha shirts and dresses, with whole families sometimes wearing matching sets. Common luau foods include: * Poi, a traditional Hawaiian staple, made from taro roots pounded into a paste; poi can be made thick or thin, fresh and sweet or older and tangy, depending on one's preferences; * Kalua Pig -- traditionally, wild pig cooked in an imu and served shredded and seasoned; * Lau Lau, a mixture of pork, fish and sometimes chicken cooked with taro leaves and wrapped in ti leaves, traditionally in an imu; * Lomi Salmon, a salsa-like dish of salmon, tomatoes and onions; * Chicken Long Rice, boiled bean noodles with chicken and vegetables; * Poke, raw fish treated with lime or lemon juice, mixed with coconut milk, onions, other condiments and various vegetables and other seafood to taste; * Haupia, a gelatin-like dessert made from sweetened coconut. (Recipes to come!) |