Australian Damper Recipe
Description:
Australian Damper is a rustic bread deeply rooted in the culinary heritage of the Australian outback. Traditionally prepared by drovers and campers, this bread is an epitome of simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect companion for camping adventures. Cooked in the glowing embers of a campfire, Australian Damper embodies the spirit of outdoor cooking, infusing each bite with a smoky essence.
Recipe Details:
- Category: Breads
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Cheese, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kid Friendly, High In…, < 15 Mins, Refrigerator, Small Appliance, Easy
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: Varies (depending on cooking method)
- Calories per Serving: 338.8
- Fat Content: 4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 11.1mg
- Sodium Content: 1075mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 64.9g
- Fiber Content: 2.1g
- Sugar Content: 1.3g
- Protein Content: 10.1g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/2 cups | Plain flour |
| 5 tsp | Baking powder |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 tbsp | Butter |
| 1 tsp | Sugar |
| 1 cup | Milk |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Add the butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to form a soft dough. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
-
-
Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step helps develop gluten, resulting in a better texture for the damper.
-
Cooking Over a Campfire:
- Tear off a double layer of greased foil, large enough to wrap the damper completely.
- Shape the dough into a flattened ball and place it in the center of the foil.
- Wrap the dough securely in the foil, ensuring there are no gaps.
- Nestle the foil-wrapped damper into the glowing coals of a campfire. Cook for about 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
-
Oven Baking Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Shape the dough into a flattened ball and place it on a greased baking sheet or in a round cake tin.
- Bake the damper in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until it is golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the damper from the heat source and carefully unwrap it from the foil.
- Allow the damper to cool slightly before slicing it into thick, hearty portions.
- Serve the Australian Damper while still warm, accompanied by butter, golden syrup, jam, or the iconic Australian spread, Vegemite.
- Enjoy this rustic bread as a delightful snack or alongside your favorite campfire meals, reminiscing about the joyous memories of outdoor adventures.
Tips:
- For an authentic flavor, consider cooking the damper directly in the coals of a campfire. This method infuses the bread with a smoky aroma and adds an extra layer of adventure to your outdoor cooking experience.
- Customize your damper by adding grated cheese, herbs, or spices to the dough for added flavor and complexity.
- If you don’t have access to a campfire, the oven baking method provides equally delicious results, albeit with a slightly different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different toppings such as honey, Nutella, or savory spreads to create unique flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences.
- Australian Damper is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Simply reheat slices in the oven or toaster before serving for a delicious snack anytime.
Indulge in the simple pleasures of outdoor cooking with this traditional Australian Damper recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends around the campfire or at home.
