The 26th January is Australia Day so I thought I’d add a traditional damper recipe. Damper is a traditional Aussie bread that was made by stockmen whilst out in remote areas of the Australian bush. It is quite often made on camping trips, on the open fire, and there are lots of different takes on the basic flour, butter and milk recipe. Id say pretty much most Australians would have tried their hand at a damper at some stage.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups self raising flour
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional)
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
Method:
Sift flour and salt into a bowl, rub in butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs.
Make a well in the centre, add the combined milk and water, mix lightly with a knife until dough leaves sides of bowl.
Gently knead on a lightly floured surface and then shape into a round, put on a greased oven tray. Pat into a round 15-16 cm (6-6 1/2 inch) diameter.
With sharp knife, cut two slits across dough like a cross, approximately 1cm (1/2in) deep.
Brush top of dough with milk. Sift a little extra flour over dough.
Bake in a hot oven for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Reduce heat to moderate and bake another 20 minutes.
If you are being authentic, you should tap the damper with a knife to see if it sounds hollow – this means its ready!
Some people serve it with golden syrup or honey.You could add cheese, olives or herbs for something different.
Have you made or tried a damper? Let me know….and Happy Australia Day
I made this for bfst for Australia Day and had it with bush honey. Was amazing! :)