10 unique dishes found down under in Australia

This UK hangover from Australia’s colonial past is common in bakeries across the country. Usually made with beef, pork, or lamb (an Aussie favorite) and potato, all of which fill a flaky crust. Typically sold in small individual packaging perfect for a quick lunch, you’ll also find larger ones to take to dinner parties.

This brown yeast spread is as common in Aussie children’s lunch boxes as PB&J is in the US. If you think it doesn’t sound that tasty, you’d be correct (IMHO). I guess it’s something you have to grow up with to appreciate.

The Americas grow a lot of squash, but strangely, pumpkins don’t feature as prominently in our dishes. That’s not true down under where pumpkin goes on literally anything. From pizzas to burgers to pasta, it’s something I miss whenever I leave!

First, “ketchup” is called “tomato sauce” in Aus, so don’t make that mistake! A staple in Aussie families and kid menus at pubs is ketchup on spaghetti. Italians, I wish I were kidding. 

Pumpkin may be a common addition to many meals, but it’s not standard for everything. Pickled beets, however, are served right along with lettuce and tomato on most Aussie burgers. Make sure to tell them if you don’t want anything purple on your plate!

Okay, good coffee isn’t exclusive to Australia. But what is uniquely Aussie is that you can find amazing (like overpriced-hipster-coffee shop level) cuppas literally anywhere in the country. There is no “bad” coffee, from the airport to gas stations, except that it’s all good, so some that would be top-tier stateside aren’t as impressive.

Another invention that isn’t limited to this continent, but the recipe sure is. The first time I ordered an iced coffee, I was surprised to be served what looked to me to be an espresso milkshake. Australian iced coffees are made with ice cream, whipped cream, and often toppings. Occasionally, one will be served blended, like a frappuccino. If you’re not in the mood for caffeine, try an iced chocolate!

An Adelaide invention, perfect for an ending to any night on the town. These meat pies are served floating in pea soup, at food trucks and even gourmet versions exist at finer restaurants. 

Another Aussie bakery staple, these chocolate-covered sponge cakes are rolled in coconut for an amazing treat!

This southern hemisphere invention is said to have originated in either Australia or New Zealand. The two countries frequently debate over the true origin story. One fact that isn’t disputed is the name, which comes from the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. The meringue-based cake is topped with fruit, typically kiwis and berries.