Traditional Maori Hangi

A traditional Maori hangi is a traditional cooking method of the Maori people of New Zealand. It involves cooking food in an underground oven. Here is a detailed explanation of a traditional hangi:

1. Preparing the Fire:

First, a fire is built in a pit. Large river stones are placed on the bottom of the pit and the fire is then lit on top of them. The fire is allowed to burn for several hours until the stones become extremely hot.

2. Preparing the Food:

The food to be cooked in the hangi is prepared separately. It usually includes a variety of meats such as lamb, pork, chicken, and fish, as well as vegetables like potatoes, kumara (sweet potatoes), pumpkin, and cabbage. The food is seasoned with herbs, spices, and sometimes a marinade.

3. Layering the Food:

When the stones in the pit are hot enough, the fire is cleared away and the stones are spread evenly across the bottom of the pit. The food is then layered on top of the stones, starting with the meats at the bottom and vegetables on top. This layering allows the flavors to mix and enhances the taste of the food.

4. Covering and Cooking:

After layering the food, wet sacks or cloth are placed on top to cover it. Then, soil and dirt are piled on top to create a well-sealed oven. This method of covering helps to trap the heat and steam inside, creating a slow-cooking environment.

5. Cooking Time:

The food is left to cook in the hangi for several hours, usually around 3-4 hours, depending on the amount and type of food being cooked.

Where to Experience a Maori Hangi:

To experience a traditional Maori hangi, you can visit cultural tourism centers, Maori villages, and certain restaurants in New Zealand. Some popular places where you can experience a hangi include:

• Te Puia in Rotorua - They offer cultural performances along with a traditional hangi feast.
• Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua - They provide immersive Maori cultural experiences with a hangi meal.
• Whakarewarewa - The Living Maori Village in Rotorua - They offer guided tours, cultural performances, and a hangi meal cooked in the traditional way.
• Maori Experience in Christchurch - They provide a hangi dinner along with cultural performances.

These are just a few examples, but there are many other places in New Zealand where you can experience a traditional Maori hangi.