The Hangi Guide: New Zealand

New Zealand is a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. One of the most iconic and traditional dishes in New Zealand is the hangi. This unique cooking method has been a part of Maori culture for centuries and is still widely practiced today. In this article, we will explore the history, process, and significance of the hangi in New Zealand.

The History of Hangi

The hangi is a traditional Maori method of cooking food in an underground oven. The word “hangi” comes from the Maori word “hāngī” which means “earth oven”. This cooking technique has been used by the Maori people for hundreds of years and is deeply rooted in their culture and traditions.

The Maori people were originally Polynesian settlers who arrived in New Zealand around 1000 AD. They brought with them their knowledge of cooking food in an earth oven, which they adapted to the unique landscape of New Zealand. The hangi was not only a way to cook food, but it also had cultural and spiritual significance for the Maori people.

Traditionally, the hangi was used to cook food for special occasions such as weddings, funerals, and celebrations. It was also a way for the Maori people to share food and come together as a community. Today, the hangi is still a popular way to cook food for special events and is also enjoyed by tourists as a unique cultural experience.

The Hangi Process

The hangi process involves cooking food in an underground oven using heated rocks. The first step is to dig a pit in the ground, usually about one meter deep and one meter wide. The pit is then lined with hot rocks, which are heated in a fire outside the pit. The rocks are carefully placed in the pit using long sticks or tongs.

Next, the food is prepared and placed in baskets made from flax or wire. The baskets are then placed on top of the hot rocks in the pit. The food is covered with wet cloths or leaves to create steam and keep the food moist. Finally, the pit is covered with soil and left to cook for several hours.

The cooking time for a hangi can vary depending on the type of food being cooked and the size of the hangi. On average, a hangi can take anywhere from 2-4 hours to cook. Once the food is cooked, it is carefully removed from the pit and served to the guests.

The Significance of Hangi

The hangi is not just a way to cook food, it also has cultural and spiritual significance for the Maori people. The hangi is seen as a way to connect with the land and the ancestors. The earth oven represents the womb of Papatuanuku, the earth mother, and the hot rocks represent the fire god, Rūaumoko.

The hangi is also a way for the Maori people to share food and come together as a community. It is a symbol of hospitality and generosity, and it is believed that the more people who share in the hangi, the more blessings and good fortune will be bestowed upon them.

Examples of Hangi Dishes

The hangi can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, and desserts. Some popular hangi dishes include:

• Hāngī chicken: Chicken marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, wrapped in foil and cooked in the hangi.
• Hāngī lamb: Lamb seasoned with herbs and spices, wrapped in cabbage leaves and cooked in the hangi.
• Kumara: A type of sweet potato that is often cooked in the hangi and served as a side dish.
• Pudding: A traditional Maori dessert made with flour, sugar, eggs, and raisins, cooked in the hangi and served with custard.

Hangi Today

The hangi is still a popular way to cook food in New Zealand, especially for special occasions and cultural events. It is also a popular tourist attraction, with many Maori cultural experiences offering the opportunity to participate in a hangi feast.

However, the hangi is not just limited to traditional Maori events. It has also been adapted to modern cooking methods, with some restaurants and cafes offering hangi-style dishes on their menus. This allows visitors and locals alike to experience the unique flavors and cooking techniques of the hangi.

Conclusion

The hangi is more than just a way to cook food, it is a symbol of Maori culture and traditions. It has been a part of New Zealand’s history for centuries and continues to be an important part of the country’s cuisine and identity. Whether you are a tourist looking for a unique cultural experience or a local wanting to connect with your heritage, the hangi is a must-try when visiting New Zealand.