Luau | Definition, Dishes, & History | Britannica

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• Discover Oahu - Hawaiian Luau History

luau banquet Ask Anything Homework Help Also known as: poi supper Written and fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors History Britannica AI Ask Anything Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask Anything

luau, a modern Hawaiian banquet. The word luau originally denoted only the leaves of the taro plant, which are eaten as a vegetable; it came to refer to the dishes prepared with the leaves and then to the feasts at which the dishes were eaten. Today the term designates the modern informal feast, as distinct from the ancient ceremonial banquets that were ritualized and attended only by men.

The standard luau is eaten at a low table that is covered with ti leaves and decorated with fruits and flowers. Traditional dishes include poi, pig baked whole in an underground oven, lau lau (luau leaves and pork wrapped in a ti leaf and steamed), lomi lomi salmon (marinated raw fish), baked sweet potatoes, fish or chicken cooked in coconut milk, shellfish, and sweets. Dancing and music accompany the feast.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.