Poi (food)

Poi is a traditional Hawaiian staple food made from the underground plant stem or corm of the taro (Colocasia esculenta) plant. It is a highly nutritious, gluten-free paste that has a unique, slightly sour taste and a distinctive purple color.

History

Poi has been a crucial part of Hawaiian culture for centuries. The cultivation of taro was a central activity in ancient Hawaiian society, and poi was a common food at every meal. The importance of poi in Hawaiian culture is reflected in the language, with many words and phrases relating to the stages of taro cultivation and poi preparation.

Preparation

The preparation of poi involves several steps. First, the taro corms are cooked, traditionally in an imu, a type of underground oven. After cooking, the corms are peeled and mashed until they form a smooth, sticky paste. Water is then added to achieve the desired consistency. The poi is then allowed to ferment for a few days, which gives it its characteristic sour flavor.

Consumption

Poi is traditionally eaten with the fingers. In Hawaiian culture, it is considered disrespectful to waste poi, and it is often served in a communal bowl for everyone to share. Poi is also used as an ingredient in other dishes, such as poi mochi and poi malasadas.

Nutritional Value

Poi is highly nutritious, providing a good source of vitamin B1, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also low in fat and high in fiber. Because it is gluten-free, it is a suitable food for people with celiac disease or other forms of gluten intolerance.

Cultural Significance

In Hawaiian culture, poi is more than just a food. It is considered a sacred part of meals, symbolizing the connection between the Hawaiian people and the land. The bowl of poi is thought to represent the Hawaiian god Haloa, who is believed to be the ancestor of the Hawaiian people.

See Also

• Hawaiian cuisine
• Taro
• Hawaiian culture