Australian Bush Bread – Damper
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Description:
Damper holds a special place as the quintessential bush-bread of Australia. It carries with it the rich history of drovers, who crafted this hearty loaf in the rugged Outback. Traditionally, drovers baked Damper in camp ovens nestled within the glowing embers of their campfires, infusing it with the essence of the land. However, fear not if you lack a campfire in your backyard, for this rustic delight can also find its place in a humble kitchen oven. To truly savor the essence of Damper, slice it into hearty chunks, generously slather it with butter, and adorn it with a dollop of jam, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of golden syrup. The resulting culinary symphony demands nothing less than a steaming cup of tea to accompany it. Prepare to embark on a journey through the flavors of the Australian bush – a journey that tantalizes the senses and warms the soul.
Recipe Category: Breads
Keywords: Grains, Australian, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, High In… (< 60 Mins), Oven, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 cups | self-raising flour |
| 1/2 tsp | salt |
| 1 1/2 cups | milk |
| To taste | butter |
| To dust | flour |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 2004.2
- Fat Content: 18.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 9.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 51.2mg
- Sodium Content: 7692.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 388.1g
- Fiber Content: 13.5g
- Sugar Content: 1.1g
- Protein Content: 61.5g
Recipe Yield: 1 Damper
Recipe Instructions:
-
Begin by sifting the self-raising flour and salt into a large mixing bowl, creating a well in the center of the flour mixture.
-
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring the mixture until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
-
Grease a camp oven or round baking pan, ensuring to coat it evenly with a dusting of flour to prevent sticking.
-
Transfer the dough into the prepared camp oven or pan, shaping it into a round loaf.
-
Using a sharp knife, make a deep cross-shaped incision on the surface of the dough. This not only enhances the appearance of the damper but also aids in even baking.
-
If baking in a campfire, carefully place the lid on the camp oven and position it within the hot embers of your campfire. Allow the damper to bake for approximately thirty minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
-
Alternatively, if utilizing a conventional kitchen oven, preheat it to 220°C (425°F). Place the prepared damper in the oven and bake for approximately thirty minutes, or until the crust is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
-
Once baked to perfection, remove the damper from the oven or campfire and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
-
To enjoy, slice the damper into rustic chunks and serve warm. Generously spread each slice with butter and accompany with your choice of jam, honey, or golden syrup.
-
Pair this delightful bush bread with a piping hot cup of tea, brewed to perfection in a traditional billy over an open flame, for an authentic Australian experience.
Embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Australia with this iconic bush bread, where every slice tells a tale of rugged landscapes, resilient pioneers, and the simple joys of sharing a meal around the campfire. Whether baked in the searing heat of the Outback or within the comforts of your own kitchen, Damper embodies the essence of Australian cuisine – hearty, wholesome, and utterly irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, stoke the flames, and prepare to indulge in a taste of tradition that transcends time and place. YUM… You just gotta have a cuppa with it. 🍞🔥🌿
