Cooking with Bush Tucker: Incorporating Native Herbs

Australia’s rich tapestry of native herbs and bush tucker offers a unique culinary experience, combining tradition with innovation. The aromatic allure of Lemon Myrtle, the sweet spice of Aniseed Myrtle, the earthy tones of Saltbush, and the peppery bite of Tasmanian Pepperberry open doors to a world of flavours that are both distinct and versatile. Today, we'll explore the culinary potential of these herbs, including their ideal food pairings, cooking methods, and a few bush tucker recipes that showcase their extraordinary flavours.

Introduction to Australian Native Herbs

Australian native herbs, once overlooked in favour of more familiar imports, are now gaining recognition for their unique flavours and health benefits. These herbs bring a fresh dimension to cooking, enabling chefs and home cooks alike to experiment with new tastes. Whether you’re creating a simple meal or an elaborate feast, these native herbs can transform everyday dishes into something truly special. Let’s explore how these herbs can be paired with various types of food to create remarkable culinary experiences.

Lemon Myrtle: Citrus Notes with a Zesty Twist

Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia Citriodora) is often referred to as the "Queen of the Bush Foods" due to its intense lemony aroma and versatile flavour. Its vibrant, citrus notes make it an excellent addition to a wide variety of dishes, from sweet to savoury.

Cooking with Bush Tucker: Pairing with Fish and Seafood

Lemon Myrtle's citrusy zest is a natural companion to fish and seafood. Whether you're grilling barramundi, pan-frying snapper, or steaming prawns, a sprinkle of dried and ground Lemon Myrtle can enhance the dish with a bright, tangy flavour. This herb pairs exceptionally well with fatty fish like salmon. Where its acidity cuts through the richness, creating a balanced dish.

Cooking Bush Tucker: Lemon Myrtle Damper

For a touch of tradition, try incorporating Lemon Myrtle into a classic Australian damper. This simple bread, traditionally baked in the coals of a campfire, is elevated by the inclusion of Lemon Myrtle. Mix flour, salt, baking powder, and dried Lemon Myrtle with water to form a dough. Bake until golden and serve with a slather of bush honey or alongside a hearty stew. The result is a fragrant, zesty bread that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savoury dishes.

Aniseed Myrtle: Sweet Spice with a Distinctive Aniseed Flavour

Aniseed Myrtle (Syzygium Anisatum) is known for its sweet, liquorice-like flavour. It adds a unique twist to dishes. Particularly those that benefit from a hint of sweetness and spice.

Cooking with Bush Tucker: Pairing with Pork and Game Meats

Aniseed Myrtle’s sweet-spicy notes make it an excellent seasoning for pork and game meats like kangaroo. When used in marinades or rubs, it imparts a subtle aniseed flavour that complements the natural richness of these meats. For a flavourful kangaroo fillet, marinate the meat in a blend of Aniseed Myrtle, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of bush honey. Grill to medium-rare and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Cooking Bush Tucker: Aniseed Myrtle Glazed Kangaroo

A modern twist on bush tucker! Aniseed Myrtle glazed kangaroo fillets are a delightful way to showcase this native herb. Create a glaze using bush honey, Aniseed Myrtle, and a splash of vinegar. Brush it over the fillets as they grill, allowing the natural sugars to caramelise and create a sticky, flavourful crust. Serve with a simple salad or roasted root vegetables for a dish that’s both sophisticated and deeply connected to the Australian landscape.

Cooking with Bush Tucker: Saltbush: Earthy, Savoury, and Versatile

Saltbush (Atriplex Nummularia) is a hardy plant native to Australia's arid regions. It brings an earthy, savoury flavour to dishes. Often used as a seasoning or even as a leafy green in salads.

Cooking with Bush Tucker: Pairing with Lamb and Vegetables

Saltbush’s earthy tones make it an ideal partner for lamb, a staple of Australian cuisine. Whether slow-cooked in a stew or roasted, lamb benefits from the savoury depth that Saltbush provides. Use dried and ground Saltbush as a rub for lamb chops or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots for a burst of Australian flavour.

Cooking Bush Tucker: Saltbush-Crusted Lamb

For a traditional yet modern dish, try Saltbush-crusted lamb. Coat a lamb roast with a mixture of dried Saltbush, garlic, and olive oil before roasting. The Saltbush forms a savoury crust that locks in the lamb’s juices. Resulting in a tender, flavourful roast. Serve with bush tomato chutney and a side of roasted root vegetables for a meal that’s rich in flavour and tradition.

Tasmanian Pepperberry: Spicy and Aromatic with a Peppery Punch

Tasmanian Pepperberry (Tasmannia Lanceolota) is prized for its vibrant colour and peppery heat. This native herb offers a complex, aromatic flavour with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile addition to both sweet and savoury dishes.

Cooking with Bush Tucker: Pairing with Red Meat and Chocolate

Tasmanian Pepperberry's bold, spicy flavour pairs wonderfully with red meats like beef and venison. Its heat and complexity enhance the richness of these meats, adding a unique twist to classic dishes. Additionally, Tasmanian Pepperberry is a surprising but delightful addition to desserts, particularly those involving chocolate. The spice cuts through the sweetness, creating a balanced, flavourful treat.

Cooking Bush Tucker: Tasmanian Pepperberry Beef

Tasmanian Pepperberry can be used to create a deeply flavoured bush tucker dish like pepperberry-crusted beef. Simply coat a beef fillet in a mixture of ground Pepperberry, sea salt, and olive oil, then grill to your liking. The result is a steak with a spicy, aromatic crust that pairs beautifully with a red wine reduction or a simple salad.

For a dessert, consider a rich chocolate mousse infused with a hint of ground Pepperberry. The spice adds a warming element that contrasts with the cool, creamy chocolate, making for an indulgent end to any meal.

Conclusion: Embracing Australian Native Flavours in Modern Cooking

The rich flavours of Australian native herbs like Lemon Myrtle, Aniseed Myrtle, Saltbush, and Tasmanian Pepperberry offer endless possibilities in the kitchen. These herbs are not just ingredients but gateways to a culinary journey that connects us to the land. By experimenting with these flavours, whether in traditional bush tucker or modern Australian cuisine, we can create dishes that are as diverse and vibrant as the landscape itself.

Embracing these unique flavours is a celebration of Australia’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an invitation to explore, create, and savour the extraordinary tastes of the Australian bush, one dish at a time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply for yourself, let these native herbs inspire your culinary adventures.

Further Info

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For more information on the Best Australian Native Spices & Herbs You Need To Try check out Australian Native Herbs and Spices.

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Additionally, for more information about Australian Native Foods and recipes check out the below links.

Recipes
Australian Aniseed Myrtle Dishes
Lemon Myrtle Drink Recipes
Tasmanian Pepperberry Traditional Cooking

Health Benefits
Aniseed Myrtle Health Benefits
Old Man Saltbush (Atriplex Nummularia)
Lemon Myrtle Health Benefits
Tasmanian Pepperberry Health Benefits

Information
Rocky Shore Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Sea Spray Seafood Rub
Dusty Chicken Poultry Rub

Where to Find Saltbush
Flavours of Australian Native Herbs: A Unique Culinary Journey
Best Australian Native Spices & Herbs You Need To Try

The Useful Native Plants of Australia: (including Tasmania)

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