If you’re planning a destination event on the island of Oahu, like a corporate gathering or family reunion, there’s no better way to introduce the Hawaiian culture than through local catering. You’ll enjoy a part of history while sampling some mouthwatering flavor combinations. Here, the team at Marians Catering in Wahiawa shares some of their signature dishes best representing Hawaiian cuisine.

3 Hawaiian Catering Dishes

1. Kalua Pig

There’s a reason roasted pigs are often associated with luaus: pork has a longstanding history of being a main dish at these Hawaiian gatherings. The earliest settlers of the islands brought pigs, which were often offered as religious sacrifice during ceremonies and consumed after. “Kalua” refers to the process by which the pig is prepared, incorporating roasting and steaming tactics to cook the meat in a pit over a bed of volcanic rock, and translates to “cook in an underground oven.” The resulting pork is tender and distinctly smoky.

2. Lomi Lomi Salmon

Although Hawaii is not home to salmon, it is the birthplace for a unique, flavorful way to prepare the fish called lomi lomi salmon. It is another traditional dish served at luaus. Featuring diced salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions, the dish is prepared by massaging the fish and other ingredients, then served cold. On occasion, additional ingredients such as hot red chili pepper and diced cucumber are incorporated.

3. Poke

Like lomi lomi salmon, poke is a fish dish served cold. Poke can be made from a number of different fish and seafood, although the most popular is ahi (yellowfin tuna). The word “poke” means “to chop,” which is how the fish is prepared. While there are more than 100 different types of poke served in Hawaii, most incorporate some combination of seaweed, sesame oil, and soy sauce.

If you’re planning an event on Oahu and want a catering team that can capture the essence of Hawaii with delightful dishes made from high-quality ingredients, allow Marians Catering to help. With more than 60 years’ experience serving weddings, parties, and corporate events, they offer international, Japanese, and traditional Hawaiian menus. View their list of available dishes online, or call (808) 621-6758 to place an order today.