Ep 4. Feasts Over Fire in Hawaii

In season 2 episode 4 of Man, Fire, Food, titled "Feasts Over Fire in Hawaii," host Roger Mooking travels to Hawaii to explore the unique cuisine and cooking techniques of the islands. The episode begins with Roger learning about the traditional Hawaiian imu, a pit oven used to cook an entire pig. He joins a local family as they prepare for a big family feast over fire, gathering banana leaves, rocks, and wood for the imu. Roger helps to season the pig with salt and ti leaves before wrapping it in wire and lowering it into the pit. The imu is covered with leaves and dirt and left to cook overnight.

The next day, Roger returns to the imu to uncover the pig, which has been slow-cooked to perfection. He samples the tender meat, which is served alongside poi, a traditional Hawaiian side dish made from taro root. Roger describes the flavor as earthy and starchy, with a texture similar to mashed potatoes.

Next up, Roger experiences Hawaiian poke, a raw fish salad that has become popular around the world. He visits a poke shop in Honolulu where he tries a variety of different poke flavors, including spicy ahi tuna and Korean-style octopus. Roger also learns about the history of poke and how it evolved from a simple way for fishermen to use up their catch to a beloved Hawaiian dish.

Roger then heads to the Waipio Valley to try his hand at preparing laulau, a traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of meat or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. He visits with a local family who shows him how to harvest and clean the taro leaves before stuffing them with pork and fish. The laulau is steamed for several hours before being served with rice and macaroni salad.

Finally, Roger visits a plantation in Maui where he learns about one of Hawaii's newest crops: coffee. He joins a local farmer as he harvests coffee beans and demonstrates the process of roasting them. Roger then samples some of the freshly roasted coffee, describing the flavor as bold and rich.

Throughout the episode, Roger emphasizes the importance of cooking with fire and how it brings out the unique flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. He also highlights the cultural traditions and history behind each dish, giving viewers a deeper appreciation for the food and culture of Hawaii.