Australia is a relatively young country, and you’ll find that the majority of places to eat in Australia have Asian or European menus – Australia is still developing its national ‘taste’, but you’ll find that there are quite a few dishes that are uniquely Australian. So, add the following to your “foods to try” list and get tasting!

Vegemite

Let’s get the obvious out of the way! Vegemite is probably Australia’s most famous food, being a spread for toast and sandwiches that looks like dark chocolate but is actually quite salty.

AI recommends: try it with toast and butter. Spread the butter first, and then spread the vegemite thinly – you don’t want it too strong!! You can also melt cheese on top, or have it with avocado on top - delicious!

Kangaroo meat

Kangaroo meat is famous for being high in protein and low in fat, being one of the healthiest meats you can eat! The meat has a strong flavour which can be very strange the first time you try it – we recommend trying it at least 3 times before you decide whether you like it or not, so that you can get used to the flavours. It can be a tough meat, so it’s best cooked rare or medium rare at the most. Due to the strong taste, it tastes best with a sweet marinade.

AI recommends: most Coles stock a delicious kangaroo steak marinated in Bush Plum, give it a try at home!

Anzac Biscuits

ANZAC stands for Australian & New Zealand Army Corps. These biscuits were created during World War I, when the ANZAC force was created, as a delicious snack that could last months without spoiling. A delicious biscuit that is not plain but not too sweet either, you can find ANZAC biscuits in any supermarket and sometimes in bakeries as well (note: supermarket varieties tend to be quite sweet).

AI recommends: Why not try making some yourself? Home-baked are the best! You can find a great recipe here.

Pavlova

Australia and New Zealand have argued for years over who invented this sweet, delicious sugary dessert. This ‘cake’ is made of a meringue base and is topped with cream and fruit, usually strawberries, kiwifruit, blueberries and passionfruit.

AI recommends: Pavlova can be found in most cake shops and sometimes bakeries, give it a try! Alternatively it’s easy to buy ready-made meringue bases (the hardest part to cook properly) in supermarkets, you can grab one and top it with cream and whatever fruits you desire… Don’t forget to share!

Find out more content like this in our section Discovering Australia.