Introduction:
When we think of New Zealand, we often think of its iconic symbol, the kiwi bird. But what about the food that New Zealanders, or "Kiwis," eat? New Zealand has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from the indigenous Maori culture, nearby Pacific Island nations, and European settlers. From seafood to meat to unique fruits and vegetables, Kiwi cuisine is worth exploring.
Seafood:
New Zealand is an island nation, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea. As such, seafood is a prominent part of the Kiwi diet. Some of the most popular seafood in New Zealand include fish such as snapper, hoki, and tarakihi, as well as shellfish like mussels, oysters, and crayfish. Kiwis enjoy their seafood cooked in various ways, including battered and fried (as in the popular dish "fish and chips"), grilled, or served raw in dishes like sushi or ceviche.
Meat:
New Zealand is also known for its quality meat. Lamb is a staple in Kiwi cuisine, with New Zealand being the world’s largest exporter of lamb. Other popular meats in New Zealand include beef, pork, and venison. Kiwis often cook their meat on the barbeque, referred to as a "barbie" or "BBQ" in New Zealand slang. This outdoor cooking method is especially popular during the summer months.
Maori cuisine:
The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and their cuisine has influenced Kiwi cuisine as a whole. One traditional Maori dish is hangi, which involves cooking meat, vegetables, and sweet potatoes in an underground pit oven. Another popular Maori dish is boil-up, which features pork, potatoes, and vegetables boiled together in a large pot. Maori also have a particular affinity for kumara, or sweet potato, which is often used in savory dishes as well as desserts.
Pacific Island cuisine:
New Zealand has a significant Pacific Island population, and their cuisine has made its mark on Kiwi cuisine. One popular Pacific Island dish is the raw fish salad known as kokoda or kokonda. This dish is similar to ceviche, featuring raw fish marinated in coconut cream and served with vegetables. Another Pacific Island dish that has gained popularity in New Zealand is the Samoan dish of palusami, which is made with taro leaves cooked in coconut cream.
European cuisine:
European settlers have also had an impact on Kiwi cuisine. British influences are evident in dishes like meat pies, sausage rolls, and the aforementioned fish and chips. Italian cuisine is also popular in New Zealand, with pizza and pasta being common dishes. New Zealand has even developed its own unique fusion cuisine, such as the "kiwi burger," which features a beef patty, beetroot, and a fried egg.
Fruits and vegetables:
New Zealand has some unique fruits and vegetables that are worth trying. Kiwifruit, or simply "kiwi," is a small, fuzzy fruit that originated in China but is now widely grown in New Zealand. Feijoas are another fruit that is popular in New Zealand, with a tangy, tropical flavor. On the vegetable side, silverbeet (similar to Swiss chard) and kumara are commonly used in Kiwi cuisine.
Conclusion:
Kiwis eat a diverse range of foods, influenced by the cultures that have shaped New Zealand’s history. From seafood to meat to unique fruits and vegetables, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Kiwi cuisine. Trying these dishes is a great way to experience the culture of New Zealand and expand your culinary horizons.