Lau Lau: Hawaii's Steamed Pork-and-Butterfish Bundle
STEP 1
Source the leaves first. Taro (luau) leaves are essential and must be fresh, not frozen — frozen taro leaves can release calcium oxalate that causes throat irritation if not handled correctly. Look for fresh taro leaves at Asian markets in Hawaii or at specialty stores; the leaves are large, heart-shaped, and a bright deep green. Ti leaves are easier to source frozen; they are decorative and protective rather than edible.