The foods of Australia carry a strong influence from people around the world. The potato famine of Ireland in the 1840's that caused many starving Irish to move to Australia. Many others traveled to the country a few years after that to enjoy their piece of the "gold rush" that occurred. Europeans and Asians settled in Australia during World War II as well and they, like their predecessors, brought their traditional cuisines. The many different cultures brought with them traditional foods such as Greek and Italian dishes, and the Europeans brought tea, coffee, cheeses, fruits, and cocoa, which have helped to create a rich diversity in Australian meals.
Food of Oceania - Cuisine of Oceania
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Oceanian Cuisine
Oceania
The food in Oceania consists of a combination of Australian, New Zealand, Samoan, and the Marshall Islands food. Because of the vast ocean that surrounds Oceania, fish is commonly used in Oceanic recipes. Oceanic food especially features many stews and soups with fish in them. Because of the tropical climate, coconuts are ubiquitous in Oceania. Coconuts are used in dishes to the fullest extent. People often drink coconut milk. However, cakes, desserts, and cookies also often have coconut in them. It is common knowledge that Oceania produces some of the best lamb meat in the world. Therefore, it is not a surprise that lamb is an indispensable ingredient in the dishes of Oceania. Salmon, venison, and pork are also important meats. The food can be quite exotic, though. Crocodiles, kangaroos, and buffalos are often found in Oceanic restaurants.
Australia
New Zealand
The food in New Zealand has a lot of influences from Britain, as well as the native dishes from the Maori. They enjoy lots of seafood, mutton and lamb chops. Other meats that are commonly found in New Zealand are muttonbird, cervena, venison and beef. One specialty of the Maori is the hangi, which is vegetables and meat that are steamed in an oven.