This Hawaiian Native cooking style is still utilized everyday in the Pacific Region. An Imu, “pit oven,” is used for “Kalua” (in the earth cooking). In English this word translates simply to “Earth Oven.”

To duplicate the traditional “Hawaiian Luau,” you first need heated lava or other rocks placed inside of the Earth Oven/Imu to provide the cooking heat source.

Native Hawaiian vegitation is used for the next layer of “packing materials;” banana leaves and trunks, or the beautiful ti and coconut palm leaves, which are also native to the region. Those “Regional Vegetation” maybe hard to come by, so we recommend these packing material substitutes-Lettuce leaves, Corn husks and Corn stalks dipped in water. Cabbage leaves may also be used, but keep in mind your food will have the taste of cooked cabbage. Watercress, Cottonwood leaves, and Thistle also work great.

After this packing layer is applied, place your food inside wrapped up in its own “packing layer.” The authentic and traditional “Luau” calls for covering the oven with sand or dirt and placing a fire on top to continue the cooking process. The “pre-packed” (in vegetation) food is protected, allowing the hot rocks to start a slow pressure cook. The fire on top of the earth and above the Earth Oven, supplies the low and slow heating source used by the Hawaiians.

This method calls for a complete submersion of your Earth Oven Grill, and cooking over the earthen cap.

For similar results, you can add your heated rocks to the Earth Oven and then place coals on one side. The heat will then cook your food “indirectly.” If you still wish to completely bury your oven, you may do so by removing the lid and adding a substitute earthen cap… another “packing layer” followed by earth/dirt.

If you’ve never had the chance to attend a real Hawaiian Luau, or of you’re missing the wonderful taste of Luau Imu BBQ! Now’s your chance in your own backyard!

Earth Oven Imu cooking is part of a longstanding cooking tradition. Enjoy the flavors of Real Pit BBQ. Make your own Luau with our easy step by step recipe here.