Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of the Kingdom of Hawaii with Laulau, a delectable dish steeped in tradition and flavor. Wrapped in tender taro leaves, Laulau features a tantalizing combination of succulent pork, fresh fish, or savory chicken, delicately seasoned and steam-cooked to perfection. Each bite offers a taste of history, echoing the ancestral roots of Hawaiian cuisine and celebrating the island's vibrant culture. Experience the essence of aloha with every savory mouthful of Laulau, a cherished culinary treasure from the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Ingredients:

1. (4-6 pound) pork shoulder or pork butt, bone-in or boneless

2. 2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt (or any coarse sea salt)

3. 4-6 large banana leaves (if available)

4. Aluminum foil

5. Liquid smoke (optional, for added smokiness)

6. 1 cup chicken or pork broth (or water)

7. Additional sea salt to taste

8. Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Prepare the taro leaves by trimming off any tough stems and washing them thoroughly. Set aside.

2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork, fish, and chicken. Season with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss to coat the meat evenly with the seasonings.

3- Lay out a large piece of banana leaf or aluminum foil. Place a few taro leaves on the bottom to create a bed for the meat.

4- Arrange a portion of the seasoned meat mixture on top of the taro leaves, followed by a few slices of onion. Repeat this layering process until all the meat and onions are used.

5- Carefully wrap the taro leaves around the meat mixture to form a tight bundle. Use additional taro leaves if necessary to ensure that the filling is completely enclosed.

6- Secure the Laulau bundles by tying them with kitchen twine or wrapping them with additional banana leaves or aluminum foil.

7- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of a large steamer pot. Arrange the Laulau bundles in the steamer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.

8- Cover the steamer pot with a lid and steam the Laulau over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through.

9- Once cooked, carefully remove the Laulau from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before unwrapping.

10- Serve the Laulau hot, unwrapped from the taro leaves, and enjoy the flavorful combination of pork, fish, or chicken infused with the essence of Jordanian and Hawaiian cuisines.

This fusion of Jordanian and Hawaiian flavors in Laulau offers a unique culinary experience that pays homage to both cultures.

Nutritional Values :

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values and potential benefits for each ingredient:

Here is the nutritional information and benefits of the ingredients:

Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt (4-6 pounds):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 250-300 kcal

   - Protein: 17-20g

   - Fat: 20-25g

   - Iron: 0.8 mg

Benefits:

   - High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

   - Contains important vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B-vitamins (B6 and B12) that support energy levels and immune function.

Hawaiian Sea Salt (2 tablespoons):

   - Sodium: 5600 mg (per tablespoon)

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor and helps maintain fluid balance in the body when used in moderation.

   - Provides trace minerals (in unrefined versions), beneficial for overall health.

Banana Leaves (4-6 large leaves):

   - Low in calories (primarily used for wrapping and flavoring, not eaten).

Benefits:

   - Imparts a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish.

   - Natural and eco-friendly alternative to plastic or aluminum cooking materials.

Aluminum Foil:

   - N/A (not consumed).

Benefits: Used for cooking and preserving moisture in the dish.

Liquid Smoke (optional):

  - Nutritional Values (per teaspoon):

   - Calories: 0 kcal

   - Sodium: 10 mg

Benefits:

   - Adds a smoky flavor without the need for actual smoking.

   - Low in calories and can enhance the depth of flavor in dishes.

Chicken or Pork Broth (1 cup):

   - Calories: 10-15 kcal (low-sodium version)

   - Protein: 1-3g

   - Sodium: 860 mg (varies by brand)

Benefits:

   - Adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

   - Provides a small amount of protein and can be a source of collagen if made from bones.

Additional Sea Salt (to taste):

   - Sodium: 5600 mg (per tablespoon)

Benefits:

   - Enhances the flavor of the dish.

   - Similar benefits as Hawaiian sea salt.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste):

  - Nutritional Values (per teaspoon):

   - Calories: 6 kcal

   - Fiber: 0.7g

Benefits:

   - Contains piperine, which has antioxidant properties and may aid in digestion.

   - Enhances flavor and has a warming effect on the body.

Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on factors like specific types of ingredients, cooking methods, and portion sizes. If you're looking for more precise nutritional information, it's recommended to use a nutritional calculator or consult a registered dietitian.