Maori Hangi - New Zealand

A Hangi, is the traditional style of cooking by the New Zealand Maori. It is used on all occasions and some. It is taboo for woman to take part in the laying of the Hangi. It is considered to be "men's business" Their role is to dig a hole, create the fire hot enough to heat the river rock that will sit at the bottom of the hole, creating a steaming environment. Prepare the meats, vegetable, puddings, seasoning, layering them in wire baskets. Cover the baskets with wet cotton then sacking then lay the basket on the river rock and seal the hole by covering the baskets with the dirt from the hole. Leave to cook for 5 hours (maybe) and reverse the process.