Haole Laulau
Haole Laulau combines tender pork, spinach, and sweet yams with savory seasonings, creating a comforting Hawaiian dish perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place half of the frozen spinach in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Mix pork with chopped garlic and arrange on top of the spinach.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Arrange remaining spinach over the pork pieces.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Arrange drained yams on top of the baked mixture and dot with butter.
- Continue baking for an additional 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider marinating the pork in advance with garlic and spices. You can substitute the pork butt with chicken thighs for a lighter option, or use tofu for a vegetarian alternative. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning. Using fresh spinach instead of frozen can enhance the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Haole Laulau pairs beautifully with Marinated Lettuce Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside steamed rice or Pigeon Peas And Rice to soak up the flavorful juices. For a festive touch, consider serving it during holiday gatherings, as it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Haole Laulau contains roughly 1228 calories, with 11g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just make sure to sauté it first to reduce its volume, so it fits well in the dish. Fresh spinach will provide a vibrant color and texture, enhancing the overall appeal of the Haole Laulau.
How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
The pork is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You can also check if it easily shreds apart with a fork. If you prefer it more tender, you can extend the cooking time slightly, as it will continue to cook while resting.
Can I freeze Haole Laulau?
Yes, Haole Laulau freezes well! After it has cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated through, or microwave directly from frozen in short intervals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).