Teresa's Recipes
Traditional Australian Damper
Damper is a rustic Australian soda bread traditionally made by swagmen and stockmen as they traveled the vast Outback. This simple yet delicious bread is known for its crispy crust and soft, fluffy interior, making it perfect for soaking up hearty soups or enjoying with a generous smear of butter or jam. Whether baked in the coals of a campfire or in your oven at home, this bread embodies the spirit of adventure and the comforts of home.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons, cold and cubed Unsalted butter
- 1 cup Milk
- 1/2 cup Water
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Bread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 26g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Sugar: 0g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour and salt. Mix well.
- Using your fingertips, rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk and water. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for 1-2 minutes, just until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking tray. Use a sharp knife to cut a cross into the top of the loaf to help it cook evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs such as rosemary or thyme, or even cheese for a savory twist.
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite preserves for a delightful treat.
- If you want to recreate the traditional campfire experience, wrap the dough in foil and cook it in the coals of a fire.