Bush tucker

Bush tucker, also known as bush food, is a term used to describe any food native to Australia and used by the original inhabitants, the Aboriginal Australians, for sustenance. This includes a wide variety of plant and animal foods, many of which are still used in contemporary Australian cuisine.

History

The use of bush tucker in Australia dates back over 60,000 years, with the Aboriginal Australians being the world's oldest known living culture. They have a deep knowledge of the land and its flora and fauna, which they have passed down through generations. This knowledge includes the use of over 5,000 species of edible plants and animals.

Types of Bush Tucker

Bush tucker includes a wide variety of foods, from fruits and vegetables to insects and animals. Some of the most well-known bush tucker foods include:

• Macadamia nuts: Native to Australia, these nuts were a staple food for Aboriginal Australians and are now a popular ingredient in modern Australian cuisine.
• Witchetty grubs: These larvae of moths were traditionally eaten raw or cooked by Aboriginal Australians.
• Kangaroo: Kangaroo meat has been a significant source of protein for Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years.

Contemporary Use

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in bush tucker, with many contemporary Australian chefs incorporating native ingredients into their dishes. This has led to a greater appreciation of the unique flavors and nutritional benefits of these foods, as well as a greater understanding of Aboriginal culture and knowledge.

See Also

• Australian cuisine
• Aboriginal Australians
• Foraging