When talking about Australia, people often mention its stunning landscapes, the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, bustling metropolises like Sydney and Melbourne, and unique wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas. However, you rarely hear much about its cuisine. This is entirely unjustified because Australian food doesn’t need to hide behind the world-famous cuisines of Thailand or India. In fact, Aussie cuisine is one of the six highlights of traveling in Australia, in my opinion! Let me introduce you to some of the best dishes and beverages that Australia has to offer, which you should definitely try when visiting the Land Down Under.
The Best Foods in Australia
Kangaroo Steak
While some may initially find it strange to think of eating kangaroo, the truth is that kangaroo meat is a unique and tasty option that you must try in Australia. It’s important to note that the kangaroo meat served in restaurants is sourced from kangaroos bred specifically for consumption, not the ones you see hopping around in the wild. In terms of flavor and texture, kangaroo meat is often compared to more familiar meats like beef. Many Australians view kangaroo meat as a lean and healthy choice, making it a popular protein source.
You can enjoy kangaroo meat in various preparations, from kangaroo steaks, burgers, and sausages to it being used as a pizza topping. The meat is known for its tenderness and distinctive flavor, making it a memorable culinary experience for those who try it. Kangaroo is not only delicious but also one of the leanest meats available, which appeals to health-conscious individuals.
Apart from kangaroo, Australia offers other unique game meats for those seeking a taste of the country’s wildlife. Two notable options are emu and crocodile meat. Emu, Australia’s largest native bird, provides a rich and flavorful meat, often served in the form of emu steaks or sausages. Crocodile meat, on the other hand, has a mild flavor and a texture that resembles a cross between chicken and fish. It’s commonly found in dishes like crocodile skewers and burgers. These game meats are part of Australia’s culinary tapestry and offer a unique dining experience for adventurous food enthusiasts.
Australian Wine
Australian wine is renowned both domestically and internationally for its exceptional quality and diverse range of flavors. If you have a taste for Australian Shiraz, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon, you’re in for a delightful experience. Drinking these wines at their source in Australia offers an authentic and immersive experience that surpasses sipping on exported bottles.
Australia boasts an impressive wine industry with numerous wineries spread throughout the country. Many of these wineries produce outstanding wines that may not be readily available for export. This is what makes visiting Australian wineries a unique and compelling part of any trip to the country.
Exploring these wineries can be a rewarding adventure, allowing you to sample a wide array of wines, learn about the winemaking process, and appreciate the unique terroirs of different regions. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just someone who enjoys a good glass of wine, visiting Australian wineries offers a chance to taste the essence of the Australian vineyards and their distinctive flavors.
Winery locator apps are readily available, making it incredibly convenient to find wineries in close proximity, particularly if you’re traveling on a road trip across Australia. You can easily plan visits to these wineries, enjoy tastings, and even purchase some exclusive bottles to bring back as souvenirs or to savor later.
Australian wine regions are known for their picturesque settings, with rolling vineyards set against stunning landscapes. Some of the most famous wine regions in Australia include the Barossa Valley, Margaret River, Hunter Valley, and the Yarra Valley. Each region offers unique characteristics and wine varieties, making wine tourism a richly rewarding experience.
If you have an appreciation for wine, Australian wineries are a must-visit attraction during your journey in the Land Down Under. You’ll have the opportunity to discover and savor some of the world’s finest wines in their place of origin, creating lasting memories and a deeper understanding of Australian viticulture and winemaking.
Australian Beer
Australia ranks as the fourth-highest per capita beer-consuming nation, trailing only the Czech Republic, Ireland, and Germany. The country’s oldest brewery was established in Tasmania in 1824. Yes, Australia is a beer-loving nation! Beer is, by far, the most popular alcoholic beverage in the country, but if you think it’s all about Foster’s, you’d be mistaken. While Foster’s might be the most widely known Australian beer internationally, within the country, brands like Coopers Sparkling and Pale Ale, James Boag’s Premium Lager, James Squires, Cascade Premium, Pure Blonde, and Bluetongue Premium Lager are among the most consumed.
In recent years, there has been a significant growth in microbreweries, which can be found in most towns and cities across the country. For example, Melbourne’s Mountain Goat Brewery is a popular microbrewery that has gained international recognition for its beers, some of which are exported to the United States. It’s worth noting that around 95% of the beer produced in Australia is of the pale lager variety, with the remaining 5% comprising dark ales and stouts.
To discover the best Australian beers in your travel region, simply visit the nearest Bottle-O (bottle shop or liquor store) and explore their selection of local and national brews. You’ll have the chance to taste the unique flavors of Australian beer, including craft beers that have gained a significant following in recent years.
Vegemite
Vegemite – either you love it or you hate it, much like its British cousin, Marmite. I have to admit, I belong to the group of people who can’t stand it, but many of my Australian friends absolutely adore it. They always carry a small jar of it when traveling abroad, and I’ve heard tales of curious converts from other countries getting strangely addicted to this stuff while traveling in Australia.
But what exactly is Vegemite? Vegemite is a dark brown spread made from yeast extract, a byproduct of beer brewing, and then flavored with vegetables and various spices. Nowadays, you can find its distinctive taste not just in spreads for bread but also in snacks like chips and pastries. Your first taste might not be pleasant, but if you give it a few tries, you might find it growing on you. Just be careful – it can be quite addictive!
Lamingtons
From Bitter to Sweet: Lamingtons are incredibly popular desserts in Australia and can be found in most bakeries and coffee shops nationwide. This simple treat consists of a square sponge cake, covered in chocolate icing, and generously sprinkled with desiccated coconut. Sometimes, they come with an extra layer of deliciousness in the form of strawberry jam or cream in the middle. Once you’ve tried them, it’s hard to have a cup of coffee without craving a Lamington to go with it!
By the way, Australia has two other famous pastries that you’ll encounter repeatedly and are well worth trying: Anzac Biscuits and Pavlova. Both are subjects of debate between Australia and New Zealand regarding who truly created them, but they’re cherished by both nations. Anzac Biscuits are named after the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and Pavlova, named after the Russian ballet dancer Anna Pavlova, is a dessert consisting of a crispy meringue shell (made with cornflour) with a hard crust on the outside and a soft interior, topped with fruit and whipped cream.
You can find Lamingtons in practically every bakery, supermarket, and specialty coffee shop in Australia. If you want to ensure you’re getting the best, here are some of the most delicious Lamington spots in Sydney and Melbourne:
Best Lamington Spots in Sydney:
- Flour and Stone (Address: 43 Riley Street)
- Sonoma Bakery (Multiple branches, including Bondi, Manly, and Glebe)
- Tokyo Lamington (Address: Level 3/9 Hay St, Haymarket)
Best Lamington Spots in Melbourne:
- Cooper & Milla’s (Address: 1094 High St, Armadale)
- Beatrix (Address: 688 Queensberry St, North Melbourne)
- Candied Bakery (A bit of a drive but a great place to grab baked goods before heading off on the Great Ocean Road. Address: 81A Hudsons Rd, Spotswood)
Meat pies
In Australia, meat pies are a beloved culinary icon and are often considered a national dish. These pies, although not originally Australian, have been enthusiastically adopted by the country and have become an integral part of its food culture. Here’s a detailed look at what makes Australian meat pies so special:
1. Ingredients:
Australian meat pies typically consist of a flaky pastry crust filled with a mixture of minced or diced meat, often beef or lamb, combined with a rich, savory gravy. The choice of meat can vary, and you may also find versions that include chicken, pork, or even game meats. Some pies include additional ingredients such as mushrooms, cheese, onions, or vegetables for added flavor and texture.
2. Flaky Pastry:
The pastry shell of an Australian meat pie is a crucial element. It is usually made from buttery, flaky puff pastry or shortcrust pastry, which provides a delicious, buttery, and slightly crispy texture that contrasts with the tender meat filling.
3. Gravy:
The hearty and flavorful gravy is what sets Australian meat pies apart. It’s made from a rich, meat-based sauce that combines with the meat to create a sumptuous, saucy interior. The gravy is often seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, adding depth and complexity to the taste.
4. Variations:
Meat pies come in various forms and sizes in Australia. While the classic meat pie is a hand-sized individual pastry, there are also party-sized pies and even family-sized pies meant for sharing. You can find meat pies with different fillings and flavor profiles, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
5. Popularity:
Meat pies are readily available throughout Australia and can be found in a variety of places, including bakeries, convenience stores, sports events, and even at gourmet pie shops that offer a wide selection of flavors. They are a convenient and popular snack option for people on the go or those looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
6. Serving Styles:
Meat pies can be enjoyed in various ways. They are often served with a dollop of tomato sauce (ketchup) on top, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory filling. Some people like to pair their pies with mushy peas, a classic side dish.
7. Iconic Status:
Meat pies are not just a food item in Australia; they hold cultural significance and are deeply ingrained in the country’s culinary tradition. They are a common choice at sporting events, especially at Australian Rules football games, and are a symbol of Australian comfort food.
Australian meat pies are a delectable combination of flaky pastry, succulent meat, and flavorful gravy. Whether enjoyed at a local bakery, a football game, or a gourmet pie shop, they are a must-try when visiting Australia and have rightfully earned their place as a cherished part of the nation’s food heritage.
