Lomi lomi salmon is a refreshing chilled salad that holds a special place in Hawaiian cuisine. This iconic side dish graces backyard luaus, potlucks, and plate lunch counters across the islands Its cool, salty crunch perfectly balances the rich flavors of kalua pork, chicken long rice, and other local favorites
But what exactly is lomi lomi salmon? And how did it become such a quintessential component of the Hawaiian plate lunch? Here is a deep dive into the history, ingredients, and cultural importance of this island staple.
The Meaning Behind the Name
In the Hawaiian language, “lomi lomi” means to massage, knead, rub or soften. Traditionally, Hawaiians would lomi (massage) salt into fresh fish to season it and prolong shelf life in the days before refrigeration. According to Hawaiian food authority Ed Kenney, “lomi lomi i’a” refers to any raw, salted fish dish with tomatoes.
The name “lomi lomi salmon” comes from the gentle massaging of the cured salmon pieces with diced tomatoes, onions, and green onions. So the term refers both to the preparation method and main ingredient.
Traditional Preparation
Making lomi lomi salmon starts by curing salmon filets in sea salt. The fish was wrapped in ti leaves and left to sit for 24-48 hours. The salt firms up the texture and penetrates the flesh with flavor.
Once cured, the salmon gets rinsed, skinned, and diced. Slices of sweet Maui or spring onion, tomato, and green onion join the salmon pieces in a bowl. A quick mix with the hands combines everything without over-massaging into mush.
No extra seasoning is needed since the saltiness of the salmon spreads throughout. Some grated ginger or a squeeze of lemon can provide a refreshing punch.
Part of lomi lomi’s appeal is the interplay of textures. The creamy salmon and tomatoes pair with the pleasing crunch of raw onion. Chilling allows the ingredients to mingle and marinate.
The History Behind the Dish
Today’s ubiquitous lomi lomi salmon was made possible by the Native Hawaiian technique of salt-curing fish. When salted salmon arrived from the Pacific Northwest in the 1800s, lomi lomi salmon quickly became a local favorite.
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Salmon – Not native to Hawaii, salmon was introduced by early Western sailors and traders.
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Salt-Curing – Ancient Hawaiians preserved fish in sea salt before Western contact.
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Onions & Tomatoes – Introduced to Hawaii in the late 1700s and early 1800s.
The traditional lomi preparation was well-suited to making the most of salted salmon. An abundance of sweet Maui onions and tomatoes added new dimensions to the salty cured fish.
Modern Riffs on a Classic
Today, most home cooks opt for the convenience of store-bought lomi salmon. Pre-made containers can be picked up at retailers like Foodland, Tamashiro Market, and Taro Brand.
Those who want to make it from scratch can shorten the salting process by using sashimi-grade salmon. A sprinkle of salt and brief marinating mimics the cure. Smoked salmon also provides a quick shortcut.
Creative chefs have put their own spin on the classic side. Popular variations include lomi lomi salmon dip and lomi tomato, a vegetarian take made without fish.
Yet despite novel versions, the soul of the dish remains that perfect balance of tender salmon, cool tomato, crisp onion, and briny saltiness.
How to Serve Lomi Lomi Salmon
Lomi salmon always plays a supporting role alongside starchy bases like rice or poi. A serving or two complements hearty mains.
Ideal pairings include:
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Kalua Pork – Contrasts the pork’s richness.
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Chicken Long Rice Soup – As a garnish, adds brightness.
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Lau Lau – Cuts the fattiness of the steamed pork bundle.
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Poi – Fermented taro pairs well with the onion and salmon.
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Rice – Benefits from the salmon’s savory umami.
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Mac Salad – Mayo dressing loves the tomato’s acidity.
For Hawaiian plate lunches, offer small bowls of lomi salmon on the table for self-service. Chill thoroughly before eating.
Where to Find Excellent Lomi Lomi Salmon
Ask locals where to find the best lomi lomi salmon on the islands, and beloved spots like Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Highway Inn, and Yama’s Fish Market always earn mentions. Fortunately, fans can also order outstanding prepared lomi salmon online from Tamashiro Market, Taro Brand, and other retailers.
In Hawaiian supermarkets, check the prepared foods section for fresh lomi salmon options. Smaller grocery stores like Alicia’s and Tamura’s have excellent ready-to-eat versions as well. For the true plate lunch treatment, pair lomi salmon with other local favorites at a lunch shop.
Enjoy This Hawaiian Classic at Your Next Meal
From backyard gatherings to potlucks to family meals, lomi salmon graces the table whenever Hawaiian foodies get together. Its salty crunch, velvety salmon and tomato, and bite of raw onion perfectly balance the rich flavors of popular local dishes.
Take inspiration from Hawaiian menus and let lomi lomi salmon play a supporting role at your next feast. A taste of this island comfort food just may earn a permanent spot on your table.
How To Eat Lomi Lomi Salmon
Oh man, so many ways. First, lomi lomi salmon is never eaten alone. Its always eaten with many other Hawaiian dishes.
For me, an ideal Hawaii lunch plate would have: rice and poi, kalua pig, pork lau lau, luau stew, chicken long rice, and lomi lomi salmon. And fresh opihi if Im lucky. A little of all the good stuff. You alternate bites of everything…
…then you make one “combo bite” that has a spoonful of poi plus kalua pig and lomi lomi salmon. All in one bite! That would be a SUPER onolicious bite, heheh.
Lomi lomi salmon at Costco Hawaii
Where To Buy Salted Salmon
Fyi, Ive included affiliate links below. I may earn a small commission (at no cost to you), if you purchase through the links.
In Hawaii, we can find salted salmon most local supermarkets. In NYC and SF, I buy salted salmon from one of the Japanese supermarkets.
LOMI LOMI SALMON RECIPE | Keeping It Relle
FAQ
FAQ
What does lomi lomi salmon taste like?
The salty, savory taste of the lomi salmon contrasts beautifully with the mild, slightly tangy flavor of poi, offering a harmonious balance. Lomi Salmon is often found at luaus, potlucks, or casual Hawaiian meals, offering a taste of local flavors and a cooling option for warm, tropical climates.
Why is it called lomi salmon?
A type of poke in essence, the name lomilomi is taken from the traditional method of preparation (Hawaiian for “to massage”) where fresh fish is rubbed with salt in varying amounts to simply season it for flavor or to cure it for preservation.
Is lomi lomi salmon raw or cooked?
Is lomi lomi salmon raw? Yes, this classic Lomi recipe is made entirely with raw ingredients. However, the salmon is salted and therefore cured… So it is preserved but not actually cooked.