Are you ready to sink your teeth into some delicious and authentic Aussie cuisine? Look no further! Australia is famous for its unique and mouth-watering dishes, from classic meat pies to sweet treats like lamingtons and pavlova. And let’s not forget the seafood – our ocean-lapped shores are teeming with fresh prawns and fish that are simply begging to be grilled or baked.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Australia, showcasing 18 delectable recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From comfort food classics like beef and mushroom pie to sweet treats like golden gaytime ice cream cake, there’s something for everyone in this Aussie culinary smorgasbord.
So grab a cuppa, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Australian cuisine!
Classic Aussie Meat Pie
Classic Aussie Meat Pie Recipe
A staple of Australian cuisine, this classic meat pie recipe is a hearty and satisfying treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next family gathering. With its rich beef filling and flaky pastry crust, it’s a true blue Aussie favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the meat filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Brush edges with melted butter, then fold other half of pastry over filling and press to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Vegemite on Toast
A classic Australian breakfast or snack option, Vegemite on Toast is a simple yet satisfying treat that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 teaspoons of Vegemite
– Salt (optional)
– Butter or spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by spreading one slice of bread with butter or a spread, if desired.
2. Spread one to two teaspoons of Vegemite on top of the buttered toast. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
3. Add salt to taste, if desired.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich, or serve open-faced if you prefer.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 1-2 minutes
– Cooking time: N/A (since it’s not cooked)
– Total time: 1-2 minutes
Lamingtons
A lamington is a beloved Australian dessert consisting of square-shaped sponge cake coated in a rich chocolate and rolled in toasted coconut flakes. Here’s a simple recipe to make these sweet treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before cutting into squares.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip each cake square into the melted chocolate, then roll in shredded coconut to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pavlova with Fresh Fruit
Create a stunning dessert with this simple recipe for Pavlova, featuring a crispy meringue shell and topped with a colorful arrangement of fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh fruit (seasonal berries, sliced peaches, kiwi, or mandarin oranges work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour and salt over the meringue mixture and gently fold until no streaks remain.
5. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a round shape, about 9 inches (23 cm) in diameter.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until the meringue is crispy and dry.
7. Allow the Pavlova to cool completely before topping with fresh fruit of your choice.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Chicken Parmigiana
This beloved dish combines crispy breaded chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, all served over a bed of pasta. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves
– Pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare breading station by mixing breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place breaded chicken on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Assemble by placing baked chicken breasts on pasta, topping each with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Anzac Biscuits
A classic Australian favorite, Anzac biscuits are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/2 cup golden syrup (or honey)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, coconut, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add golden syrup, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Barramundi with Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce paired with flaky barramundi fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 barramundi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place barramundi fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, butter, garlic, and thyme.
5. Brush the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fish fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kangaroo Steak with Bush Tomato Chutney
Experience the unique flavor of Australia’s national symbol, kangaroo steak, paired with a tangy and sweet bush tomato chutney. This recipe is perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 4 kangaroo steaks (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 cup bush tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add kangaroo steaks and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill kangaroo steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
4. While the steak is cooking, combine bush tomatoes, onion, garlic, and honey in a pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Serve kangaroo steak with warm bush tomato chutney spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Gaytime Ice Cream Cake
Create a show-stopping dessert that combines the iconic Australian ice cream with layers of crunchy biscuit and rich chocolate. This Golden Gaytime Ice Cream Cake is perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 Litres Golden Gaytime Ice Cream
– 250g Chocolate Biscuits (e.g., Tim Tams), crushed
– 200g Dark Chocolate Chips
– 1 cup Whipped Cream
– Fresh Mint Leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crush the chocolate biscuits and set aside.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. Scoop the Golden Gaytime Ice Cream into a large serving dish or cake stand. Top with half of the crushed biscuits.
4. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the biscuits. Repeat the layers: ice cream, biscuits, and chocolate.
5. Top the cake with whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None required! This cake is ready to serve straight away.
Damper Bread
Damper bread is a classic Australian staple that’s simple to make and perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite meals. This recipe yields a delicious, slightly sweet loaf with a crispy crust and soft interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar.
3. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Prawns with Garlic Butter
Impress your friends and family with this simple yet impressive recipe for grilled prawns smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the prawns with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the prawns with garlic butter mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Serves: 4
Beef and Mushroom Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and flaky pastry. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (such as rump steak)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 200g puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook beef strips in a large pan over medium-high heat until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same pan, cook onion and mushrooms until softened, then add garlic, flour, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked beef back into the pan, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 3mm (1/8 inch).
6. Place beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Brush edges with beaten egg, then fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush top with remaining egg and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fairy Bread
A sweet treat that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or just a fun snack, Fairy Bread is an Australian favorite. This simple recipe brings together buttery bread, sweet jam, and colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients:
• 1 loaf of white bread (e.g., soft, fluffy, or brioche)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1-2 cups your preferred jam or spread (e.g., strawberry, grape, or Nutella)
• Sprinkles or hundreds and thousands (colored sugar) for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread into desired thickness.
3. Spread a layer of butter on each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spoon a small amount of jam or spread onto the buttered area.
5. Top with sprinkles or hundreds and thousands.
6. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Macadamia Crusted Fish
Add a touch of tropical elegance to your dinner table with this flavorful and crispy fish recipe. The combination of sweet macadamias, savory fish, and zesty lemon creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as mahi-mahi or tilapia), skin removed
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together macadamia nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Coat each fish fillet with the macadamia mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tim Tam Cheesecake
Experience the unique combination of crunchy Tim Tams and creamy cheesecake in this decadent dessert. This recipe is a twist on traditional cheesecake, incorporating the iconic Australian biscuit for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup Tim Tams, crushed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crumbs and crushed Tim Tams with sugar and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Bush Tomato and Wattleseed Damper
This traditional Australian recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of bush tomatoes with the nutty goodness of wattleseed, perfect for a campfire snack or outdoor adventure.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon bush tomato paste (or substitute with sun-dried tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon wattleseed powder (or substitute with sesame seeds)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Add bush tomato paste and wattleseed powder; mix well.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape into a round or oblong damper (about 1 inch thick).
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Potato Wedges with Sweet Chili Sauce
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy potato wedges smothered in a sweet and spicy chili sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut potatoes into wedges and place in a bowl.
3. Drizzle with oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
6. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, ketchup, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
8. Serve potato wedges with warm sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Australian BBQ Sausage Sandwich
Get ready to fire up your taste buds with this classic Aussie-inspired sandwich that combines juicy sausages, crispy bacon, and creamy condiments. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Australian-style sausages (e.g., snags or chorizo)
– 6 slices of white bread
– 6 slices of crispy cooked bacon
– 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your BBQ to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the sausages for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook the bacon slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a sausage on each bread slice, topping with a few pieces of crispy bacon, a dollop of tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of mayonnaise.
5. Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of Australia! This article brings you 18 delicious and authentic recipes that showcase the country’s culinary delights. From classic comfort food like meat pies and Anzac biscuits, to seafood dishes like grilled prawns and barramundi, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find sweet treats like pavlova and Golden Gaytime ice cream cake, as well as unique desserts like Tim Tam cheesecake and bush tomato and wattleseed damper. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds Down Under.
