The Hawaiian taro fields (kalo lo’i) of Hanalei are one the main sources of cultivation for Hawaii’s favorite starch, the taro (kalo) root. This respected plant can be prepared many ways and is eaten in its entirety. The lo’í or irrigated terrace is the vast paddy that feeds and nurtures the kalo. These colorful paddy’s are harvested year around and the taro farmers work relentlessly in knee deep mud and battle such enemies and apple snails and droughts to maintain lush productive fields.
Hawaiian’s believe the sacred beauty and richness of Kauai’s North Shore in all its majesty is the perfect place to grow such a respected and important food source. The root is what is pounded to make Poi and its big sturdy leaves are a major ingredient for our Steamed Laulau or Squid d Luau all found on any traditional Hawaiian menu.
The beautiful fields are a must see while visiting Kauai’s North Shore.
Directions:
From Princeville, take Highway 56 west across the north shore of Kauai. Hanalei area begins when the Highway changes number to 560 and just off the Hanalei one-lane bridge.
2 Responses
I am interested in taro leaves. We use the young tare leaves for one of our main dish which is called Palusami. It’s a Samoan dish. If you woul be able to use or sell the you leaves, I some business here in Seattle will order fro m you cause they use that dish in their business. We do party and we long for this dish but can’t get any of this young leaves.
The problem with the leaves that is from Hawaii has adult leaves and itchy when eat and tough. I do not wish to use this leaves in any of our dish. We would be happy if these business use the right leaves for this dish. Hope you will help us to order this type of Taro leaves. I believe that my people and business here will be able to use the young leaves in the near future. Thank you.
Aloha Felili,
Thank you for your inquiry. The Parrish Collection doesn’t sell taro leaves, however, I found a local produce distributor here on Kauai that may be able to ship them to you. You may contact them directly at the address or phone number below and I hope they can help you.
Esaki’s Produce
4780 Kahau Rd, Kapaa, HI 96746
(808) 822-7722