The Hawaiians believed it was important to honor their gods and to share their prosperity with family and friends. These celebrations were first called aha-aina (gathering for a meal). The term luau came into favor later and refers to the young edible leaves of the taro plant.
When King Kamehameha II abolished the kapu system in 1819, women and men were able to not only eat together, but to share the same food। Until that time, coconuts, bananas, and other foods were forbidden to women. Certain fishes and other foods were forbidden to men. A feast where the king ate with women was the symbolic act that ended this religious taboo, and the luau was born.
The traditional luau feast was eaten on the floor on lauhala mats. The centerpiece was adorned with ti leaves, ferns, and native flowers. Large calabash bowls were piled high with food. Utensils were never used at the luau, instead everything was eaten with fingers.
The centerpiece of the luau is the “imu”, or underground oven. This is where the traditional “kalua pork” or roasted pig is cooked. The hole is lined with red hot stones. The whole pig is then lowered into the pit and steamed for several hours. Banana leaves, ti leaves, wet burlap and earth are piled on top of the pig. When fully cooked, the meat of the kalua pig is stringy and mouth melting tender.
The poi is a staple of the Hawaiian diet and is a paste made from pounding the root of a taro. Although the glutinous consistency and bland taste don't immediately appeal to visitors, it is nutritious and an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C. Other traditional foods include lomilomi salmon (salmon with tomatoes and onion), chicken luau (chicken cooked in coconut milk and taro leaves), chicken long rice, pipikaula (seasoned beef jerky), poké (seasoned raw fish), and sweet potato. Dessert usually includes “haupia”, which is a gelatin-like coconut pudding.
Today, the luau is a tradition among local islanders. Hawaiian and local families often gather together for special occasions such as a baby's first birthday, a wedding, or a graduation party. Sometimes these luaus can last for days.
The luau is a major attraction and visitors to Hawaii can experience a luau offered by the many hotels, resorts, and private companies. These luaus usually include entertainment such as Hawaiian music and hula. Other entertainment may include the Tahitian hula and Samoan fire dancing.
Feasting is a universally accepted form of celebrating happy and important events. It is a time to share traditional foods, enjoy songs and dances, and give thanks to our family, friends, and guests. The Hawaiians have evolved this great pleasure into a truly unique cultural experience.
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