Māori cuisine

Māori cuisine reflects New Zealand's indigenous culture, emphasizing communal preparation and naturally sourced ingredients. Key techniques include slow-cooking foods in ancient earth ovens called hangi, which impart a smoky, earthy flavor. Traditional dishes feature ingredients like root vegetables (kumara), native greens, seafood, and meats such as muttonbird. Māori cuisine also incorporates native herbs and berries for flavor. Today, it blends traditional methods with modern influences, highlighting cultural identity and connection to the land. Overall, Māori food is characterized by its emphasis on communal sharing, tradition, and respect for natural resources.