| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins – 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 178 | 5g | 3g | 29g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 1g | 5g | 0.2g |
About Damper
The humble Damper bread invites you into an authentic culinary expedition soaked in rich history and flavor. Originating from Australia, this traditional bush bread is as wholesome as it’s gesture. Featuring simple ingredients and a rustic, hearty appeal, this is an all-time favorite amongst bread enthusiasts and bakers.
What is Damper?
Damper is a soda bread baked or cooked over a campfire, best enjoyed with stews and soups. Featuring a cake-like texture and a slight buttery taste, it requires just four basic ingredients – self-raising flour, a pinch of salt, butter, and milk. Without any need for yeast, it’s a bread that’s an absolute joy to bake and a delight to consume.
Damper: An Aussie Original
Historically, this bread has been a staple in the Australian culture, notably amongst the swagmen, drovers, and travelers who needed a quick and easy bread as they journeyed through the outback. There’s more to this Australian bread than meets the eye. Its origins from the colonial Australia evoke a sense of nostalgia and patriotic pride amongst the Aussies.
Flavors and Texture
The secret to Damper’s irresistible charm can be attributed to its minimalistic flavors. Thanks to the chilled, cubed butter that gives it a moist touch, and a crumbly, almost scone-like texture, leaving you craving for that extra slice.
Serving Suggestions
Whether you decide to bake it in an oven or cook it directly over the campfire, what matters most is how you serve it! We prefer our Damper warm, slathered with butter, or a spread of golden syrup to add that touch of authenticity.
Just as it’s versatile in its preparation, so too is it adaptable when it comes to what you serve it with. Classic Australian stews make a great complimentary dish, but equally, it works well in mopping up the sauce of an Italian pasta dish. A hearty beef stew or a simple bolognese brings out the flavors of Damper beautifully.
So next time you yearn for a change from your regular bread – why not give Damper a try? You might just discover your next favorite bread!
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 cup of milk
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 390 degrees Fahrenheit). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with baking paper.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and salt. Mix them together until they are well combined.
Step Three
Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. This process might take a few minutes; make sure to distribute the butter evenly through the flour.
Step Four
Make a well in the center of your flour mixture. Slowly pour the cup of milk into the well, using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently stir the ingredients together until the dough starts to come together. Do not over mix as this will result in a tough damper.
Step Five
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly until the dough becomes smooth. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it onto your prepared baking tray.
Step Six
Using a sharp knife, cut a cross into the top of the loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the damper is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step Seven
Let the damper cool slightly before serving. It is best served warm, either as a side dish for soup or stews, or served with butter and jam for a delightful treat.
