Waitangi Day Snacks to Share

To celebrate Waitangi Day we propose a healthy alternative to make, serve and share with children and families. We use a few traditional ingredients while concentrating on the idea of cooking and sharing a meal together as a celebration of unity and friendship.

Being able to participate in a shared cooking experience allows children to practice a range of social skills and become more familiar and comfortable working in group settings. This is especially relevant when introducing Te Tiriti as children can gain hands on experience working, cooperating and relating to other children, which are the values inherent in The Treaty of Waitangi. Our Make-Your-Own Seed Buns & Roasted Kumara Dip are delicious, healthy, simple and require only a few ingredients. Plus, making and sharing a meal together will be a great way for the children to begin fresh in the New Year and get reacquainted!

Make-Your-Own Seed Buns & Kumara Dip

Recipe by Clean Plate

Serves 10 pre-schoolers

Make-Your-Own Seed Buns

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 Tbsp cooking oil (we used olive oil, but any type of cooking oil will do)

• A selection of seeds, to decorate (we used sesame, pumpkin and sunflower seeds)

Method:

1. Allow the children to measure and mix all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl.  

2. When combined, tip out onto the table, split into smaller portions, and allow children to knead, play, squish, etc.

3. When the children have finished, and shaped their dough as desired, use seeds to decorate.

4. Bake in a 220℃ oven for 10-15 min.

Tip: The dough can be a bit sticky, so using extra flour to dust hands and surfaces is a good idea.

Roasted Kumara Dip

Ingredients:

• 1 x 420g can cannellini, drained and rinsed

• 250g Kumara, peeled, chopped and roasted

• 1 tsp crushed garlic (or one garlic clove)

• 1 Tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (or Kawakawa*)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Pinch of salt

• 1 Tbsp olive oil (or canola/ rice bran/ sunflower)

• Enough water to reach desired consistency (add a tablespoon at a time) 

*Kawakawa is a native New Zealand plant, also known as Maori Bush Basil. If you do have access to Kawakawa plants, you may substitute 1/2 Tbsp chopped Kawawkawa leaves (with thicker veins and stems removed) for the 1 Tbsp basil leaves.

Method:

1. Place all ingredients, except the olive oil and water, in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times and, with the motor running, add the olive oil and enough water until you reach the desired consistency.

2. Check the seasoning and serve.