Despite being a relatively young nation in comparison to the rest of the western world, Australia has managed to lay claim to a number of amazing food inventions. Through our nations trials and tribulations, Australians have created foods to help us celebrate the good times and to comfort us during sombre moments.
Now just because you’re an Aussie it doesn’t mean you HAVE to be eating these foods all the time. In fact, if you’re looking for unique and delicious meal ideas then you should check out some of the HelloFresh recipes.
As Australians and westerners, there are some special occasions where we enjoy specific dishes with friends and family. For example, there are plenty of creative Easter treats Australians have created to enjoy the April holiday.
While no-one will really begrudge you for avoiding these foods, every now and then it’s nice to embrace your Australian pride and participate in our storied culture through something yummy. Let’s take a look at 7 of the most iconic Aussie foods you ought to be avin’ a go at, mate.
Anzac Biscuits
Developed during the early 1900s, Anzac biscuits were sent off to the Australian and New Zealand soldiers fighting in the trenches of World War 1, and we still eat them to this day as a way to pay tribute to their sacrifice. They were designed as a reminder to the troops that everyone at home was thinking about them and greatly appreciated what they were doing for their country. The recipe was egg-free so that it was able to last the long sea journey from Australia to Europe and the biscuits oat base was designed to provide some level of nutrition to soldiers often bereft of adequate rations.
Tim Tams
Developed by the iconic Australian biscuits brand Arnott’s; Tim Tams first appeared on our shelves in the 1960s. The chocolate biscuit with malt cream and a chocolate coating is an irresistible treat for lovers of all things chocolate. These biscuits came through at a time when the food market was growing rapidly and they certainly have endured through the years, remaining a classic Australian treat.
Such is the popularity of Tim Tams that the Tim Tam Slam has become a classic Australian behaviour as we sit down by the TV after dinner enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. Biting off both ends, you can dip the Tim Tam into your tea or coffee and suck the drink through it before quickly eating it before it disintegrates.
Pavlova
There will forever be debate over the true origin of the Pavlova, be it Australia or New Zealand, but what we do know is that it’s a classic dessert loved by all. Whether you are from Australia or New Zealand, you will have likely grown up getting to experience the deliciousness of this iconic treat. The dish itself was named after a Russian ballet dancer, Anna Pavlova, and created following one of her tours through Australia.
There have been numerous books written and research completed in an attempt to discover the true origins of the dish, with little definitive success. Regardless of its true origins, it appears that both Australians and New Zealanders lay claim to the indulgent combination of meringue, cream and fresh fruit.
Lamingtons
The lamington counts as one of the earliest foods created by Australians since it was created in celebration of our nation’s federation. Whilst there is still debate about the actual date of creation, it is widely believed and accepted to have been named after Lord Lamington, the Governor of Queensland in the lead up to Federation.
Throughout its long life the lamington has experienced a few variations to the classic lamingtons recipe. It was initially made as a simple sponge or butter cake, coated with chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut. However, since then it has enjoyed a little bit of creative experimentation with many people including raspberry sauce, cream and/or strawberry jam.
Vegemite
It is hard to believe that Vegemite took a number of years to really get going, but once it did, it certainly didn’t slow down. Prior to Vegemite, Australians used British marmite and it took a lot of convincing to get everyone to jump ship.
Developed in the 1920s by the Fred Walker Company; the spread is now an Australian staple. Whether we choose to use it as a spread on toast in the mornings or as a flavour enhancer in soups and curries, every Australian enjoys their Vegemite.
Kangaroo
Native to Australia, Kangaroo is a red meat that can be commonly found in supermarkets. It has long been enjoyed by indigenous Australians and is one of the healthier meat options available due to it being very lean. Whilst it often isn’t as tender as beef, when prepared with a nice sauce and a quick cook on the BBQ, it’s a really delicious treat for everyone.
Barramundi
Another meat source that has been historically eaten by indigenous Australians is barramundi. It is a beautiful white fish that is extremely versatile but best enjoyed with fresh fruit and vegetables. It is a slightly sweeter fish than most and is most commonly found in northern rivers and streams.
It is no surprise that Australians are often seen as big sweet tooths, with the majority of our iconic culinary creations coming in the form of a dessert or a snack. However, that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a celebration of your culture with some of the iconic dishes you know and love.
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