Bushfood is the name given to lots of different types of food that come from plants that are native to Australia.
Just like we have apples and bananas and carrots, Australia has lots of different plants that grow in the bush (the wild areas of the country). These plants have been used for thousands of years by Indigenous Australians as a source of food, medicine and even tool-making materials.
Some of the most well-known types of bushfood include:
- Wattleseed: This is a type of seed that comes from the wattle tree. It can be used to make bread, biscuits, and even coffee.
- Lemon myrtle: This is a type of plant that has leaves with a really strong lemony flavor. The leaves are often used in cooking and can be used to flavor things like fish, chicken, and sauces.
- Kakadu plum: This is a type of fruit that grows in Northern Australia. It has a really high amount of Vitamin C (even more than oranges!) and is often used in jams, sauces and even skincare products.
- Quandongs: These are a type of fruit that grow on trees and are found in many parts of Australia. They are often used to make jams, chutneys, and even ice cream.
One of the great things about bushfood is that it is incredibly sustainable. Because these plants have grown in Australia for thousands of years, they are adapted to the harsh climate and don't require a lot of water or fertilizers to grow. Plus, they provide an important link back to Indigenous culture and traditions.