Aussie Damper, a traditional bushman’s bread, originated with early settlers and swagmen. Born out of necessity, this simple yet hearty bread was crafted by swagmen and drovers while on the move. Its history is steeped in the tales of the Outback, making it a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness. A bread baked in the coals of a campfire, it’s an iconic part of Australian culinary folklore.
| Country | Australia |
| Degree of Difficulty | Easy |
| Type of Food | Snack |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Serving Size | 6 people |
Ingredients:
- 4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your campfire or oven to 200°C (392°F).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the milk.
- Mix gently to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and lightly knead.
- Shape the dough into a round and place it in a greased camp oven or on a lined baking tray.
- Score the top with a cross.
- If using a campfire, cover the camp oven with coals and bake for 30 minutes or until golden.
- For an oven, bake for 25-30 minutes until the damper is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Fat | 4g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Optional Additions or Substitutions:
- Add grated cheese or herbs for extra flavor.
- Replace some flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Tips or Variations:
- Experiment with cooking methods: campfire, oven, or even a barbecue.
- Serve with golden syrup or jam for a sweet twist.
Other Countries Where They Also Make This Recipe:
- While Damper is uniquely Australian, similar campfire bread traditions exist worldwide.
Allergen Checklist:
- Dairy (butter and milk)
- Gluten (self-raising flour)
