How To Make a Hangi

Planning to make a traditional Maori Hangi is a really BIG job!

***Warning*** If you are not very knowledgeable when it comes to Hangi preparation there’s a lot of things you need to take into account and a lot of practical aspects within the process, which if you're just a little bit off, will totally BOMB your Hangi experience!

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The next few paragraphs contain a quick overview of how to make a Hangi. It's by no means a complete guide, however it will provide you with a good idea of what exactly is needed.

Step 1: Find the required utensils and supplies. The essential equipment you are likely to require is a Hangi basket (or a few), Hangi stones (or alternative), food, wood, good sized cloths and / or blankets plus shovels for digging.

<< Click here for access to the detailed equipment list >>

Step 2: Identify an ideal location to cook the Hangi and dig your Hangi pit. Be very careful while choosing your position since not all soil is suitable for Hangi cooking. Don't forget to take into account the measurements of your Hangi basket as you are digging your Hangi pit.

<< Click here to find out exactly where you should have your Hangi >>

Step 3: Build your open fire arranging your rocks in an appropriate place so that they will receive the most energy possible out of the fire. You will want to ensure that you will have more than enough timber to raise the temperature of your rocks for long enough to enable them to completely cook the food. The wood you use is also VITALLY important to both the taste and heat generating capacity of your fire.

<< Click here to find out how best to build your fire >>

Step 4: While the fire’s doing it's thing it's time to fill your Hangi basket with the food you want to cook. Not all food is suitable and you shouldn't forget to line your basket to protect against burning, but not so excessively that no heat can pass. The dimensions, height and width of your Hangi basket will have a direct impact on the way the Hangi will turn out, so make sure you do it all properly. It is also pretty important for you to ensure that your basket is covered and your food is layered correctly in your basket in order for the best possible cooking.

<< Click here for lining and packing instructions >>

Step 5: When the rocks have reached their maximum heat immediately move them into your Hangi pit. Place the basket on the top and layer the wet covers over your baskets. Swiftly cover the Hangi with dirt.

<< Click here for cover recommendations and instructions >>

Step 6: Based on the size of your Hangi and the energy source used, wait 2 to 4 hours for the Hangi to do it's thing. Frequently check to ensure no leakages or vents. Chill out and enjoy a drink as you are admiring all of your work. Most of all hope like heck that you have done it all correctly!

<< Click here for covering instructions and timing recommendations >>

Step 7: Once enough time has passed dig up your Hangi very carefully. Transfer to the table and then serve it up. Generally the Hangi meal is set out for everyone to help themselves, however this will be at your discretion of course. Separately packed fundraising Hangi packages or commercial operations would have a somewhat varied method. Good luck and have fun!

To ensure success make sure you get a copy of the

Official NZ Hangi Guide