Bush tucker is a broad term covering food from native Australian fauna and flora, particularly that found in the Outback and eaten by indigenous Australians.
Some ingredients such as kangaroo, crocodile, lemon myrtle and macadamia nuts can be found embellishing European dishes in restaurants all around the country, although this barely qualifies as authentic.
The best opportunites to try the real stuff are in the Northern Territory, and you can’t go past Kakadu Animal Tracks. This mob takes travellers on hunting and gathering safaris around Kakadu National Park, culminating in a campfire feast of the daily catch. This might include snakes, turtle, magpie geese and native yams, depending on what’s available. It’s a great way to sample bush tucker while also gaining insight into Aboriginal culture.
When you’re there you must try a witchetty grub (pictured). This moth larvae, when eaten raw, is said to taste of chicken or prawn satay with a liquid centre. Or if you’re feeling like dessert after, you may be able to try a honey ant. They carry honeydew in their swollen abdomens. Go on, we dare you.
July 18th, 2011
