Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones

Akudjura, also known as Bush Tomato, is a unique ingredient used in Australian Indigenous cuisine. Here’s the information you requested:

What is Akudjura (Bush Tomato)?
Akudjura, or Bush Tomato, is a small, round fruit native to the arid regions of Australia. It belongs to the Solanum genus and is typically dried before use. These dried fruits have a strong, tangy flavor with hints of caramel and tamarillo, making them a popular ingredient in Australian Indigenous cooking.

History:
Bush Tomatoes have been used for thousands of years by Indigenous Australian communities as a source of food. They are an important part of the traditional diet and culture. The fruit is known for its nutritional value and its ability to be stored for extended periods, making it an essential survival food in the harsh desert environments of Australia.

Components:
To prepare Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of self-raising flour
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, diced
• 1/2 cup of dried Akudjura (Bush Tomato), finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/2 cup of plain yogurt

Steps to Prepare Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, sugar, and salt.

3. Add the cold diced butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the finely chopped dried Akudjura (Bush Tomato).

5. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and plain yogurt.

6. Slowly pour the milk-yogurt mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon to gently combine until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the ingredients come together.

7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times to bring it together.

8. Roll or pat the dough out to a thickness of about 2 cm (3/4 inch).

9. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out scones from the dough. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the scones are golden brown on top.

11. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.

Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones is approximately 30-40 minutes, including preparation and baking time. It may vary slightly depending on your experience in the kitchen.

Enjoy your Akudjura Scones, which have a unique twist with the addition of Bush Tomato, bringing a delicious Indigenous Australian flavor to this classic baked treat.

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones. Please note that the values provided are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 3g

Health Information:

1. Moderate Caloric Content: Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones are moderately calorie-dense, providing about 210 calories per serving. Be mindful of portion sizes to control calorie intake.

2. Fat Content: These scones contain approximately 11 grams of fat per serving, with 7 grams of saturated fat. While fat is essential in a balanced diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation.

3. Cholesterol: The scones contain 30mg of cholesterol per serving. It’s recommended to watch cholesterol intake, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns.

4. Sodium: Each serving has 210mg of sodium. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, so it’s essential to be mindful of your overall sodium consumption.

5. Carbohydrates: These scones are a source of carbohydrates, providing about 24 grams per serving. Carbohydrates are a primary energy source, but it’s important to balance your intake with other nutrients.

6. Fiber: With 1 gram of dietary fiber per serving, these scones provide a small amount of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.

7. Sugars: There are approximately 6 grams of sugars in each serving. Keep in mind that added sugars should be limited in a healthy diet.

8. Protein: Each serving contains 3 grams of protein, which is important for tissue repair and overall body function.

Health Tips:

• Enjoy Akudjura (Bush Tomato) Scones in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Consider making ingredient substitutions or modifications to reduce saturated fat or sugar content if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions.
• Pair your scone with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for added nutrients and fiber.
• Always consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have specific health concerns or dietary requirements.