Damper (Aussie Campfire Bread)

This very traditional Australian bread was the staple food of the famous Australian swagman. Traditionally it is cooked in the coals of the campfire but this version is made in your oven. It’s very quick to make and extremely versatile. Damper is a cross between a bread and a scone. It can be either sweet or savoury and the variations are endless – just use your imagination. Try a savoury damper as a side dish with soup. The swaggies often served a plain or sweet damper with butter and golden syrup (corn syrup). Served like this it’s called ‘cockie’s joy’ – a ‘cockie’ being a farm worker, and a ‘boss cockie’ being the person in charge. Damper does not keep well. It is best eaten the day it is made, but it can be frozen and reheated. Give it a try for something different!

Huey’s Green Bean, Potato and Bacon Salad

My adaptation of another of Huey’s fabulous recipes. His salads he always categorises as sexy salads. He recommends this dish as an entrée or light lunch for four. It could, of course, also be served as a side dish. Serve it warm or at room temperature, whichever you prefer. Huey (Iain Hewitson) is a larger than life Melbourne restaurateur and chef who also features on his own extremely popular TV show. I have posted several of his recipes on Zaar.

Quick Low-Fat Mushrooms

A simple fry-pan cooked mushroom -lowfat version for my New Years Resolution to lose some weight. Great served on toast with egg, serve on top of steak or chicken. For a gluten-free or lactose free then check your stock powder is suitable (I use Massel brand-GF, vegan, lactose free and all natural). For a creamier sauce use low-fat cream or evaporated milk in place of the water. I’ve noticed that the nutrition panel seems to be picking up on the extra olive oil-it’s optional and only needed if your mushrooms require. Instead of the extra oil you could use a little water.

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