The Iglu Guide | Blog
Classic Aussie dishes you need to try
Getting to the heart of the Aussie food culture is no mean feat, because we’re just at home eating noodles or sushi as we are with gozleme and pasta. That said, there are a few favourites that will remain forever intertwined with the national identity. If you’re planning on immersing yourself in all things Australian, you’re already across the sport and you’ve mastered the lingo, here’s what you need to get your teeth into to feel right at home.
Vegemite on toast
A simple, bold and powerful choice, Vegemite’s distinctive taste says ’Australia’ loud and clear – without uttering a single word. Created in 1922 as a response to wartime Marmite shortages, Vegemite was originally intended as a nutritious addition to stock, soups or stews. Today, this yeasty spread has a far wider remit and is a beloved addition to 9/10 Australian pantries. Rich in a meaty, umami flavour, Vegemite is widely acknowledged as a rich source of vitamins and nutrients – but there’s no denying it might take a little practise to fall in love.
Spread it like a pro
This is the perfect student snack. Spread your Vegemite thinly onto some freshly toasted bread and pair with butter, cheese or avocado to reduce the bitterness. If you’re prepared to have a second helping, an Australian passport could well be in your future.
Pavlova
The iconic Aussie Christmas dessert, there’s nothing quite like seeing that chewy meringue frame start to crack as it buckles under the delicious creamy weight of sugar-dusted fruits. The unrivalled centrepiece of the holiday season, nothing says Australian summer quite like a mango and blueberry pavlova. If you’re ever asked to bring along a plate, this summertime classic is a dead cert way to honour your host, and insert yourself into the Australian culture like a longtime local. You can even take a short cut and buy a readymade base – no judgement here.
Pav it like a pro
Easy Pavlova recipes are easily found and easily followed. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature when you separate the yolks, gradually bled in the sugar spoon by spoon, and never peek into the oven while its cooking. Gradual cooling is essential to limit any cracking.
Meat pie
There’s never a bad time to tuck into a meat pie, whether you’re watching the sport, out on a road trip, heading home for the night, or just passing a legendary pie shop. Nothing says Australia o’clock quite like it. Harking back to the nostalgic days of school canteens, this classic number is more than just a snack, it’s Australian heritage right there on a plate. Comfort food at its finest, it’s easy to find, cheap to buy, and delicious on the go. Proudly simple and proudly Aussie, meat pie is for every table.
Fill it like a pro
Whilst beef is thought of as the traditional pie filling, today’s options are delightfully limitless. Think Moroccan lamb, chicken and leek, curried mince or vegetarian. The pastry, however, should always be light and flaky.
Sausage sizzle
Uniquely associated with election days, the democracy sausage can be found sizzling away outside most community events and fundraisers. As a BBQ staple and a regular guest in most Aussie households, it unites Australians across all walks of life. If you’re struggling to find the comforting smells of fried and onions and sizzling beef nearby, head to your local Bunnings and you won’t leave disappointed.
Barbie like a pro
Nothing says Australia like an impassioned sports debate over the BBQ – just keep the snags turning!
Barramundi and chips
The nation’s favourite fish is undoubtedly the humble Barramundi. Mild and firm with a buttery flavour, Barramundi and chips can be found on most Aussie menus – whether it’s simply the local RSL or a fancy downtown restaurant.
Serve it like a pro
Take it pan-fried, BBQ’d, grilled, or baked, but never replace those chips with salad or veggies. It’s completely un-Australian.
And finally… Chicken Parmi
The legendary Chicken Parmi is a complete Aussie classic, celebrating everything that is comforting and familiar about Australian cuisine. A beloved plateful of breaded chicken, cheese, ham and tomato sauce, this dish celebrates Italian-American flavours in a unique Australian style and takes unapologetic pride of place on most classic food menus. Served up by the thousands every day of the year, the chicken parmi is definitely here to stay.
