Australia is known for its unforgiving terrain, dangerous animals, and unique accents. However, Australian cuisine is among the most diverse in the world, blending together its colonial roots with the UK (with the foods of the indigenous inhabitants) to create world-renowned fusion in their dishes. With Australia serving as just as much of a melting pot as the biggest cities across the world, the food and the culture that surrounds it is unique, plentiful, and something that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
The Flat White
Though it probably wouldn't come to mind at first, Australia has one of the biggest and most vibrant local coffee industries in the world. Australia's coffee culture goes back to the beginning of the 20th century with Greek and Italian cafes across cities like Sydney and Melbourne. And Australia even developed a common menu item you'll find even at your chain coffee stores: the flat white. And a flat white is something every coffee drinker must try when visiting its birthplace. Similar to a cappuccino and latte, the flat white is steamed milk poured over a shot of espresso. The difference is its milk to coffee ratio, which is higher. This drink can be found in virtually any coffee house in the continent is a great way to sample a unique and homegrown beverage down under.
Vegemite
Vegemite is possibly one of the most well known exports of Australia. In fact, it's such a commonly used product in the country that they developed their own Cadbury Egg flavor for it. This spread is made out of yeast extract and has a salty and bitter malt taste to it. It's often used as a condiment on toast or certain types of sandwiches. It's a polarizing food, but it's as well known to Australia as maple syrup is to Canada, and something everyone needs to try to get the true Australian experience.
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has become a huge trend recently for a healthy breakfast alternative. And when you think of avocados, you probably don't think of Australia. But the sought-after green fruit from Mexico is a huge deal in Australia as a breakfast item. Not only is often included in most breakfast dishes but is offered as a side to the dishes that don't contain it. And Vegemite toast topped with Avocado is a staple breakfast or snack item for Aussies everywhere. So, while you may be able to get Avocados anywhere, trying out the ways Australian cuisine has infused it into their dishes is a must do.
The Witchetty Grub
Alright, we're going to take a break from the obvious meals and try something a little more out there. Not all Australian food is cosmopolitan in nature. As we mentioned, Australia has incredibly diverse cultural roots. So, what is one way to truly experience bush life? The Witchetty Grub. This little larvae was a staple in the diets of aboriginal peoples in Australia for centuries. Some people describe the taste as chicken, some as eggs even some say it has a nutty flavor. Whatever you find in it, this dish is incredibly unique to the Australian experience and should be tried to broaden your food horizons in the country.
Kangaroo Meat
Another way to experience the more unique aspects of Australian food is to find yourself a dish of kangaroo meat. It may sound odd, but like deer in some parts of the United States, kangaroos are treated as game, despite their status as the country's national animal. It's got a gamey taste and is best served medium rare. It can be found in a plethora of restaurants across the country and bought in the supermarket for a classic Aussie barbeque. It's less adventurous than the Witchetty Grub but still an incredibly unique staple of Australian food.
Pavlova
If you're looking for desert, Australia has that too. Pavlova is a common and widespread dessert item in the country consisting of meringue, a crispy outside, and a marshmallow interior all topped with cream and fruit. The origins of this dish are a topic of controversy as the dish was named after a Russia ballerina visiting Australia so the two countries argue over ownership. But either way, it is a must try for any desert monger visiting Australia.
There's an entire world food out there to try in Australia. Look beyond the comfort zones of metropolitan restaurants and do research. You may not like all of it, but the range of options is unlike anywhere else. And at the end of the day, it'll become a great story over your next meal.
