Lomi Salmon on Taro Chips – Modern Hawaiian Pupu

Lomi salmon is one of Hawaii’s most traditional dishes—salted salmon “massaged” (lomilomi means to massage) with tomatoes and onions. Serving it on crispy taro chips gives this luau classic a modern pupu presentation that’s perfect for parties.

Lomi salmon came to Hawaii in the early 1800s when sailors introduced salted fish to the islands. Hawaiians transformed it into something uniquely their own, and it’s been a luau essential ever since—always served cold, always served fresh. For the traditional side-dish version, see our Lomilomi Salmon recipe.

Ingredients

For Lomi Salmon

• 1 lb salted salmon (or fresh salmon, see note)
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced small
• 1 Maui onion (or sweet onion), diced small
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• Crushed ice

For Taro Chips

• 1 lb fresh taro root
• Oil for frying
• Hawaiian sea salt

Instructions

Prepare the Lomi Salmon (Start Day Before)

1. If using fresh salmon: Cover with coarse salt, wrap tightly, refrigerate 24 hours. Rinse and soak in cold water 4 hours, changing water twice.
2. Shred salmon: Remove skin and bones. Shred into small pieces with your fingers—this is the “lomi” (massage).
3. Combine: Gently mix salmon with tomatoes and onions.
4. Chill: Refrigerate. Serve over crushed ice to keep cold.

Make Taro Chips

1. Prep taro: Peel and slice paper-thin using a mandoline.
2. Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry chips in batches until golden and crispy, 2-3 minutes.
3. Drain and season: Drain on paper towels, immediately sprinkle with Hawaiian salt.

Assemble

1. Arrange taro chips on a platter.
2. Spoon lomi salmon into a bowl set over crushed ice.
3. Let guests scoop salmon onto chips.

Tips

• Keep it cold – Lomi salmon should always be served ice cold
• Don’t over-salt – The salmon is already salty. Taste before adding more.
• Fresh tomatoes – Ripe, firm tomatoes work best. Too soft and they’ll turn mushy.
• Wear gloves for taro – Raw taro can irritate skin

Traditional Serving

At luaus, lomi salmon is traditionally served in a large bowl set in ice alongside poi, kalua pork, and other Hawaiian foods. The taro chip presentation modernizes it for pupus while honoring the flavors. It pairs beautifully with poke on any party spread.

More Hawaiian Pupus

Love island-style appetizers? Try these other favorites:

• Spam Musubi – Hawaii’s favorite snack
• Poke Nachos – Hawaiian-style nachos with fresh ahi
• Hurricane Popcorn – Hawaii’s addictive furikake snack

This recipe is part of our Hawaiian Pupus Guide. Discover more island appetizers!