What is Lomi Lomi Salmon? A Guide to Hawaii’s Quintessential Side Dish

Lomi lomi salmon occupies a special place in Hawaiian cuisine. This chilled salad of diced salted salmon, tomatoes onions, and green onions graces potlucks backyard gatherings, and plate lunch joints across the islands. The refreshing flavors and textures make it the perfect accompaniment to rich, savory dishes like kalua pig and chicken long rice.

But what is lomi lomi salmon, and how did it become such an important part of Hawaiian food culture? Read this full guide to learn everything you need to know about this Hawaiian staple.

The Meaning Behind the Name

In the Hawaiian language, “lomi lomi” means to knead, rub, massage, or soften. Traditionally, Hawaiians would lomi, or massage salt into fresh fish to both season and preserve it. According to Hawaiian food expert Ed Kenney, the phrase “lomi lomi i’a” refers to any raw fish dish with salt and tomatoes.

Lomi lomi salmon was made possible by the method of salting and massaging fish to spread flavor and make it last longer. In the 1800s, sailing ships brought salted salmon from the Pacific Northwest to Hawaii. The Hawaiians used their traditional lomi method to make the dish we know and love today.

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 with cured, salted salmon. Hawaiian sea salt was traditionally put on top of whole filets, which were then wrapped in ti leaves. The salt penetrates the flesh and firms up the texture while adding flavor.

Once cured for 24-48 hours, the salmon gets rinsed skinned and diced. Sweet Maui or spring onions, tomatoes, and green onions join the salmon pieces in a bowl. A quick mix combines the ingredients without over-massaging them into mush.

No additional seasoning is needed since the saltiness of the salmon permeates the whole dish. A sprinkle of grated ginger adds a refreshing zing. Freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice can also brighten up the flavors.

Part of lomi lomi salmon’s appeal stems from the interplay of textures. The smooth, almost creamy salmon and tomatoes contrast with the crunch of the diced onions. Chilling allows the ingredients to marinate and meld together.

Modern Riffs on a Classic

Today, commercially made lomi lomi salmon provides a convenient shortcut for time-pressed home cooks. Hawaiian supermarkets like Foodland and Times stock pre-made containers in the prepared foods section. Specialty retailers like Taro Brand also sell ready-to-eat packages nationwide.

For homemade lomi lomi salmon, some skip the lengthy salting process by using sashimi or sushi-grade salmon. Massaging in a touch of salt and letting the raw salmon chill mimics the curing. Smoked salmon works too, offering a similar salty richness.

In Hawaii’s thriving food scene, you can find creative riffs on the classic dish. Lomi lomi salmon dip features the traditional ingredients blended smooth and served alongside chips or as a party snack. Non-salmon versions like lomi tomato offer a vegetarian take, subtracting the fish but keeping the bright flavors.

Even with inventive interpretations, the soul of the dish remains that sublime balance of tender salmon, cool tomatoes, crispy onion, and salty umami.

How to Serve and Eat Lomi Lomi Salmon

Part of lomi lomi salmon’s appeal stems from how it complements and cuts the richness of many Hawaiian plate lunch and luau staples. A few perfect pairings include:

• Kalua pork – The tenderness of the pork plays off the salmon’s texture.

• Chicken long rice soup – Lomi lomi salmon garnish adds a refreshing contrast.

• Lau lau – The steamed pork bundle wrapped in taro needs the acidity of the tomato.

• Poi – Fermented taro pairs nicely with the soft onion and salmon.

• Rice – A scoop of rice benefits from the salmon’s richness.

• Macaroni salad – The mayo-dressed noodles love the acidity of the tomatoes.

Lomi lomi salmon always plays a supporting role next to a starchy base like rice or poi. Unlike a salad that’s eaten alone, lomi lomi graces the plate in a spoonful or two to complement the other dishes.

When serving a traditional Hawaiian spread, offer lomi lomi salmon in small bowls on the table for self-service. That way guests can add a dollop on their plate as desired. Chill thoroughly before serving.

Where to Buy Excellent Lomi Lomi Salmon

Locals have strong opinions about who makes the best lomi lomi salmon on the islands. Iconic spots like Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Highway Inn, and Yama’s Fish Market rank among the favorites. Luckily, even visitors can experience outstanding versions through retailers shipping nationwide like ‘Awa and Fish, [(https://awaandfish.com/), Tamashiro Market (https://www.tamashiro.com/), and Taro Brand (https://tarobrand.com/).

On Oahu, hit up grocery stores like Foodland and Times as well as smaller markets like Alicia’s and Tamura’s for excellent ready-to-eat lomi. For the full experience, order lomi lomi salmon alongside other local favorites at a Hawaiian plate lunch boutique orlunch wagon.

Elevate Your Next Meal with Lomi Lomi Salmon

From backyard barbecues to potlucks to plate lunch outings, lomi lomi salmon appears where local foodies gather. Its bracing saltiness, cool crunch, and tender salmon perfectly balances Hawaii’s rich cuisine. Take a page from the island playbook and let lomi lomi salmon play a supporting role on your next menu.