About This Food
Poi is a staple starch of the Hawaiian diet. With an oftentimes thick, paste-like consistency, it is made from the pounding and mashing of kalo or taro root (traditionally, using a poi pounder). Water is added to the purple-gray mixture to create thinner or thicker consistencies, which may be referred to as one, two, or three-finger poi.
Poi is a starchy carboyhydrate, low in fat and high in vitamins A and B, fiber, magnesium, and potassium. Poi is easily digestible and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for babies, elderly, or people with compromised diets.
Information
Other names: Pounded Taro, Kalo
Physical Description
Poi has a smooth, paste-like consistency, and can be thicker or thinner depending on how much water is added.
Colors: purple gray
Tasting Notes
Flavors: sweet, sour
Mouthfeel: Smooth, Creamy, Earthy
Food complements: Fish, Pork, Beef
Substitutes: Milk
Selecting and Buying
Seasonality: january, february, march, april, may, june, july, august, september, opctober, november, december
Preparation and Use
Taro should be cooked thoroughly, as the root contains calcium-oxalate crystals that can irritate the mouth and throat if the taro is undercooked or raw. Poi is usually served cold or at room temperature. If the consistency is too thick, add water to thin it out.