Quick Rewena Parāoa Flatbread

Step into the rich culinary heritage of Aotearoa with this Quick Rewena Parāoa Flatbread, a delightful and accessible take on a traditional Māori leavened bread. Rewena parāoa, often called Māori potato bread, carries deep cultural significance, historically being a staple food that sustained Māori communities. Its unique texture and distinctive tangy flavour come from a slow-fermentation process using a potato-based starter, or 'rewena'. This recipe ingeniously speeds up that process, offering you the authentic taste and a wonderfully tender crumb in a fraction of the time. Perfect for modern kitchens, this Māori bread is fantastic pan-fried to a golden crisp or baked until beautifully puffed, serving as a delicious accompaniment to butter, honey, or any meal. Embrace this taste of tradition and discover the magic of genuine Māori cuisine today!

Preparation time
20 min
Cooking time
15 min
Total time
35 min
Servings
6

Instructions

Mixing the Dough

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together to ensure even distribution.
  2. 2Add the active rewena starter to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky.
  3. 3Gently knead the dough in the bowl for about 1-2 minutes, just until it comes together. Avoid overworking.

Shaping and Cooking

  1. 1Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out and gently divide it into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round flatbread.
  2. 2For pan-frying: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. 3For baking: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place flatbreads on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden.

Nutrition Information

Calories
281 kcal
Protein
6 g
Fat
10 g
Carbs
42 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories281 kcal
Protein6 g
Fat10 g
Carbs42 g

Tips

  • Ensure your rewena starter is active and bubbly for the best rise and tangy flavour in your Māori bread.
  • Be careful not to overcook the flatbreads, as they can become tough. Aim for a golden-brown exterior.
  • Serve Rewena Parāoa warm, perhaps with a smear of butter or a drizzle of golden syrup, a true taste of New Zealand.

By Chef Michael Ilin