International Student’s Guide to traditional Australian Food

From delicious barbecues to fairy bread, Australian food is a force to be reckoned with. If you’re studying Down Under or planning to move there soon, here are some traditional Australian food you must try at least once!

1. Anzac Biscuit

Named after the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, these oats-coconut cookies were originally sent to soldiers abroad as the ingredients don’t spoil easily. They’ve since grown to become a classic.

2. Chiko Roll

The Aussie version of spring rolls is widely available across at fish and chip shops as well as supermarkets across Australia. Savoury and deep-fried, this go-to snack is a cultural icon Down Under.

3. Lamington

Readily available in local bakeries and coffee shops, this national dessert consists of sponge cake cubes dipped in chocolate and generously sprinkled with grated coconut. What’s not to like?

4. Tim Tams

Another signature cookie, Tim Tams have a creamy center coated in chocolate. Available in dark, white and a chewy caramel chocolate flavour, the original milk chocolate version continues to be a crowd-favourite. If you’re still not convinced, look up Tim Tam Slam to find out just how much of a cult classic it has become.

5. Grilled Roo

You may think it odd to find the national animal on restaurant menus and supermarket shelves, but this lean red meat is a delicious, environmentally-friendly alternative to beef. In fact, there are twice as many kangaroos as cattle in the country! Many locals consider them a bit of a pest, which may explain their rising popularity as an exotic, barbecue alternative.

6. Pavlova

The longest (and sweetest!) running dispute between Aussies and Kiwis is over the Pav. This light, meringue dessert topped with fresh fruits and whipped cream is popularly served at Christmas, Labour Day, weekend barbies, and more!

7. Vegemite on Toast

People either love or hate this cult Aussie spread – there is no in between! Luckily, most Australians swear by Vegemite. It’s a thick, paste-like yeast extract that is lightly spread on buttered toast or crackers. Salty and bitter, this is definitely an acquired taste!

8. Dog’s Eye

This is just what they call meat pies Down Under. These delicious savoury pies stuffed with minced meat, gravy, mushrooms, onion and cheese are every meat lover’s dream. They’re the go-to takeaway order — especially after a wild night out.

9. Barramundi

Barramundi is the Aboriginal name for sea-bass that literally translates to “large, silver-scaled fish”. This is a staple in most Australian restaurants, and for good reason too — it’s downright delicious!

10. Beetroot Burger

We can all agree that hamburgers are delicious – but no one does it quite like Australia! Burgers Down Under are incomplete without the twang of sliced beetroot. It may sound unusual, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll never want to stop.

These are our top picks for unique Australian food. Did we miss any? Let us know on Twitter!

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