bougna

Bougna is a traditional dish of the Kanak people of New Caledonia. It is closely linked to communal gatherings and celebrations, where food preparation is a social activity and a sign of hospitality. The dish is defined as much by its cooking method as by its ingredients, with several components wrapped in leaves and slowly cooked to meld flavors.

Typical ingredients include meat such as chicken or pork, and sometimes fish or shellfish; starchy vegetables like yams, sweet potatoes, taro, and cassava; along with onions, peppers, and sometimes coconut milk or herbs for seasoning. The exact combination varies by family and region.

In its classic form, the wrapped bundles are arranged on a bed of hot stones in an underground or earth oven. The bundles, sealed with banana leaves or other plant materials and covered with earth, cook for several hours. The result is tender meat and vegetables with a smoky, layered flavor, and the leaf wrapping helps retain moisture.

Variations exist across Kanak communities, reflecting local produce and family traditions. Bougna embodies the social nature of Kanak foodways, with recipes often passed down through generations and shared among kin and guests.