Ti-Leaf 'Aina Ahiahi
A traditional Hawaiian dish featuring pork, fish, and spinach wrapped in ti leaves, infused with smoky and savory flavors, perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a heavy roasting pan with 4 washed and deveined ti leaves.
- Place thawed but uncooked frozen leaf spinach on top of the ti leaves.
- Brush each pork chop and fish fillet with liquid smoke, then place them on the spinach.
- Add sliced onions over the top and sprinkle with about 2 teaspoons of Hawaiian salt.
- Cover and cook until the pork and fish are cooked through, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try marinating the pork chops and perch fillets in liquid smoke for a few hours before cooking. If ti leaves are unavailable, banana leaves can make a good substitute. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen if it's in season. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ti-Leaf 'Aina Ahiahi with a side of Southern Red Rice for a complete meal. A fresh salad, such as France's Spinach Salad, complements the dish well. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving with sliced bananas on the side. This dish is also delightful paired with grilled vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes on medium power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ti-Leaf 'Aina Ahiahi contains roughly 379 calories, with 12g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (134% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 ti leaves instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh ti leaves can be used. Just ensure they are thoroughly washed and trimmed before lining the roasting pan. Fresh leaves may impart a more vibrant flavor compared to frozen ones.
What can I use instead of perch fillets?
You can substitute perch fillets with other mild white fish, such as tilapia or cod. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish, so monitor it closely.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the refrigerator, making it suitable for meal prep. Just make sure to store the pork and fish separately from the spinach to maintain texture.
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).