Bunyeroo Bites
Inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of South Australia's Bunyeroo Valley, "Bunyeroo Bites" is a dish that melds local flavors with a hint of creativity. The valley is known for its rugged beauty and sprawling vistas, providing natural inspiration for this hearty, satisfying, and savory treat.
The Indigenous Australians of the region have a rich history of utilizing native ingredients, and these bites pay homage to their traditional cooking practices while incorporating modern elements. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, Bunyeroo Bites offer a burst of flavors with each bite.
Ingredients
- Kangaroo meat - 500g
- Saltbush - 50g
- Pepperberry - 2 tsp
- Quandong - 100g, dried
- Lemon myrtle - 1 tbsp
- Wattleseed - 1 tbsp
- Olive oil - 3 tbsp
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Egg - 1, beaten
- Breadcrumbs - 100g
- Parmesan cheese - 50g, grated
Preparation
Preparing the Kangaroo Meat
Start by finely dicing the kangaroo meat into small, manageable pieces. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and becomes tender. If possible, ask your butcher to double-check their size, aiming for small cubes.
Prepping the Native Herbs and Spices
Wash and finely chop the saltbush leaves. Next, grind the pepperberry into a powder and set aside. Rehydrate the quandong by soaking them in hot water for about 20 minutes until soft, then drain them before chopping into small pieces.
Cooking Process
Mixing the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced kangaroo meat, chopped saltbush, ground pepperberry, chopped quandong, lemon myrtle, and wattleseed. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavor profile.
Creating the Mixture
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until both are golden brown and fragrant. Integrate them into the bowl with the other ingredients, ensuring they're well combined. Crack the egg over the mixture and add breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Stir until all elements form a cohesive mass.
Forming and Cooking the Bites
Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or patties. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and set a cooking timer for 30 minutes. Bake the bites until they're fully cooked and slightly crispy on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
These Bunyeroo Bites are best enjoyed warm. Serve them with a side of native bush tomato chutney or a simple yogurt dip flavored with herbs of your choice. They pair well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, offering a balanced, nutritious meal.
Enjoy With
Pair your Bunyeroo Bites with a glass of Australian Shiraz, which complements the earthy tones of the kangaroo meat and the pungency of the saltbush. Alternatively, enjoy with a refreshing lemon myrtle tea for a non-alcoholic option.