When it comes to talking about delicious food, Australia is definitely a country that should be on your radar. With its unique blend of indigenous ingredients and British-inspired cuisine, Aussie cooking has developed a distinct flavor all its own. From savory meat pies to sweet-as-honey desserts, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering dishes to try. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the land Down Under, highlighting 18 must-try Australian food recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic comfort foods like Aussie-style fish and chips to more adventurous dishes like kangaroo steak with red wine jus, we’ve got it all covered. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Australian cuisine or just looking for some new recipe inspiration, these authentic dishes are sure to impress.
Stay tuned for our in-depth look at the best of Australian food recipes!
Classic Australian Meat Pie
A staple of Aussie cuisine, this meat pie is a hearty and satisfying treat that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day or a picnic in the park. With its rich filling and flaky crust, it’s a classic recipe that never goes out of style.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup beef mince
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, cook the beef mince until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the beaten egg and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish. Fill with the meat mixture and top with another piece of pie crust or pastry strips.
6. Brush the top with milk or beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegemite on Toast
A classic Australian breakfast or snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This simple recipe brings together the iconic spread Vegemite, crispy toast, and a squeeze of lemon for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
• 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
• 1-2 teaspoons of Vegemite
• 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
2. Spread 1-2 teaspoons of Vegemite onto each slice of toast.
3. If desired, add a pat of butter or margarine on top of the Vegemite for extra richness.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance out the flavors.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice, if you like (adds a bright and citrusy note).
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Vegemite on Toast!
Lamingtons
Lamingtons are a quintessential Australian sweet treat that consists of squares of sponge cake coated in a layer of chocolate and rolled in toasted coconut. This recipe yields a batch of tender, moist, and deliciously chocolatey lamingtons perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup (100g) shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before cutting into squares.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip each square of cake into the melted chocolate and then roll in shredded coconut to coat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pavlova
Pavlova is a classic Australian dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. This meringue-based cake is a showstopper, with its crispy exterior giving way to a light and airy interior.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the mixture; gently fold in.
4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a circle, about 20cm (8 inches) in diameter.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
6. Allow to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Arrange mixed berries on top of meringue.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Anzac Biscuits
Anzac biscuits are a beloved Australian treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings. This recipe yields a batch of chewy, golden-brown cookies with a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup golden syrup (or honey)
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, coconut, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add melted butter, salt, golden syrup, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared tray, leaving 2 inches between each biscuit.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmigiana
A staple of Italian-American cuisine, this dish combines crispy breaded chicken with melted mozzarella cheese and tangy marinara sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare breading station by mixing breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on a plate.
3. Dip each chicken breast in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer fried chicken to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Barramundi with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of barramundi with a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Barramundi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the barramundi fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, softened butter, garlic, and parsley.
5. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Damper Bread
Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews, this traditional Australian damper bread is easy to make and full of flavor. With a simple dough and minimal ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the warm aroma of freshly baked bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Gradually add the water, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fairy Bread
This simple and sweet recipe is a childhood favorite that’s perfect for parties or just a fun snack. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be making fairy bread like a pro in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of white bread (preferably soft)
– 1 block of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bread into small rectangles or squares.
2. Spread a thin layer of softened butter evenly onto each piece of bread.
3. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the butter, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the fairy bread pink or blue.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Fairy bread is best served fresh.
Kangaroo Steak with Red Wine Jus
Experience the bold flavors of Australian cuisine with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared kangaroo steak served with a rich red wine jus, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 kangaroo steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season kangaroo steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear kangaroo steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Transfer to oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve kangaroo steak with red wine jus spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter
Succulent prawns smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive summer dinner or BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 12 large prawns
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the prawns with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Place prawns on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Golden Gaytime Ice Cream Cake
Celebrate with a show-stopping dessert that combines the classic Australian ice cream flavor of Golden Gaytime with moist vanilla cake and crunchy biscuit crumbs. This impressive cake is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 can (410g) Golden Gaytime ice cream, crushed
– 1 cup crushed biscuit crumbs (e.g. Anzac biscuits)
– Whipped cream and extra biscuit crumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by milk.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with crushed Golden Gaytime ice cream and topping with crushed biscuit crumbs.
Tim Tam Cheesecake
This cheesecake combines the classic flavors of Tim Tams with a creamy and rich dessert, perfect for any occasion. With a crushed biscuit crust and a gooey caramel sauce on top, this Tim Tam Cheesecake is a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Tim Tam biscuits, crushed
– 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
5. Bake crust for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
7. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
8. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
9. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
10. Top with crushed Tim Tams and caramel sauce.
11. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Australian Fish and Chips
Enjoy a quintessential Australian classic with this simple recipe for fish and chips. Fresh fish, crispy batter, and golden fries come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 x 150g pieces of white fish (such as cod or haddock), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chips (fries)
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 180°C.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, beer, and salt. Dip each piece of fish into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Carefully place the battered fish into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cut the potatoes into long strips. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes or until crispy. Drain and serve with the fish.
Cooking Time:
– Fish: 6-8 minutes
– Chips (fries): 2-3 minutes per batch
Witchetty Grub Dip (Bush Tucker Style)
In this recipe, we’ll recreate the rich flavor of Witchetty grubs using common ingredients and a dash of bush tucker magic. This unique dip is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to experience the taste of Australia’s outback.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Add smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in no time.
Macadamia Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines crispy macadamia nuts with juicy chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together macadamia nuts, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bush Tomato Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney showcases the unique flavor of bush tomatoes, a native Australian ingredient. Perfect for topping toast, using as a dip, or adding to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bush tomatoes (or substitute with red tomatoes)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine bush tomatoes, onion, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and olive oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach Melba
Savor the sweet and tangy combination of juicy peaches, vanilla ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. This iconic dessert is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a bowl or glass.
2. Arrange the sliced peaches on top of the ice cream.
3. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the peaches in a zigzag pattern.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This dessert is best served chilled.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Australia with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic comfort food like meat pies and lamingtons, to seafood dishes and sweet treats, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making authentic Aussie favorites like pavlova, anzac biscuits, and vegemite on toast. Or, explore more adventurous options like kangaroo steak with red wine jus or witchetty grub dip. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try new things or just want to bring a taste of Australia into your own kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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