Time to feast
The ma’a Tahiti is prepared in the traditional way using the “Ahi ma’a”, the traditional Tahitian oven. This oven is in fact, a simple pit dug in the ground layered with wood. Porous volcanic stones are placed over the wood layer. Once the wood has been consumed by the fire, the stones are transformed into an efficient heat source. Once the adequate temperature has been reached, the stones are covered with banana leaves.
The ma’a Tahiti is actually composed of several dishes that are steamed in this traditional pit. Therefore, it requires a lot of preparation time. This is the Tahitian festive meal par excellence.
The “ma’a Tahiti” consists of steamed root crops like “taro”, “uru” (breadfruit), yams or sweet potatoes. It is also composed of fish and meat like pork or mutton. The first course, served is the famous raw fish salad or the “Fafaru” (marinated fish).
With these typically Tahitian dishes, Polynesians celebrate Mother Nature and her gifts with dishes typical of local fare. The “Ma’a Tahiti” is a cultural experience and a meal that should not be missed on your next visit to our islands. As we say in Tahiti, “Tama’a Maita’i!”. (Enjoy your meal !)