| abstract | - The cuisine of New Zealand features a great variety of dishes and is mostly based on fresh ingredients. This cuisine is among the youngest in the world and the diversity is generated by the desire to try out new recipes and to improve the existing ones. New Zealand is an island, and in consequence there are many types of seafood that is used in Zealanders’ dishes. Also, the soil is proper for the crops of several vegetables. These facts assure the freshness of the ingredients. The cooking style that is practiced in New Zealand was influenced, through time, by the cuisines of many countries from Europe, Polynesia and Asia. The aborigenes, which are called Maori, have also affected the actual manner in which the dishes are prepared. Though, the strongest influence comes from Australia, and nowadays these countries share several dishes. Some of the dishes that are specific to New Zealand feature Lamb, venison, Pork, lobster, salmon, mussels, Scallops, shellfish, as well as some exotic fruits, such as kiwifruit, feijoa and tamarillo. This country became famous because of its foods, but more than that, the wines that are produce in New Zealand are recognized all over the world as some of the best. Among the 10 areas in which wine is produced, the most important are: Martinborough , Marlborough, Gisborne, Central Otago, Waiheke Island and Hawke’s Bay. Each of these regions is famous as it creates a certain type of wine, as it follows: Gisborne produces chardonnay, Marlborough – sauvignon blanc, Martinborough – pinot gris and pinot noir, Waiheke Island and Hawke’s Bay – cabernet. The traditional dishes are simple, especially during the summer, when people enjoy eating outside. They prepare barbecues from many types of meat, such as Beef and Lamb. The most important Maori delicacy is named hangi. This dish is prepared in a special manner. Hot stones are placed on the bottom of the deep hole. Grass is put on the stones and then the food is positioned on this layer. Next, another layer of grass is laid on the food. The final step consists of sealing the whole, by introducing earth in it. Men take care of the preparation of the hole, while the women are responsible with the food. If the family that prepares this food is numerous, each member must participate.
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