italian beef olives recipe australia

Italian Beef Olives Recipe with an Australian Twist

When it comes to Italian cuisine, Australians have a special affinity for its rich flavors and aromas. One dish that has gained immense popularity in the land down under is Italian beef olives. This mouth-watering recipe combines the tender richness of beef with the brininess of olives, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry package. In this article, we'll take you on a culinary journey to create the ultimate Italian beef olives recipe with an Australian twist.

The Origins of Italian Beef Olives

Italian beef olives, also known as "olive all'italiana," have their roots in Italy's Apulia region. This traditional dish is typically made with thinly sliced beef, olives, capers, and herbs, all wrapped in a delicate pastry crust. Over time, Italian immigrants brought this beloved recipe to Australia, where it has evolved to incorporate local flavors and ingredients.

The Australian Twist: Using Native Ingredients

To give this Italian beef olives recipe an Australian spin, we'll incorporate some native ingredients that complement the original flavors. For this recipe, we'll use Australian-grown olives from the McLaren Vale region, known for their rich, fruity flavor. We'll also add some bush tomato relish for a tangy, slightly sweet contrast. And, to tie everything together, we'll use a hint of lemon myrtle, a native Australian herb with a subtle citrus aroma.

The Recipe: Italian Beef Olives with an Australian Twist

Here's what you'll need:

• 500g beef fillet, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Australian olives, pitted
• 2 tbsp bush tomato relish
• 1 tsp dried lemon myrtle
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef, olives, bush tomato relish, and lemon myrtle. Mix well to combine.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add the beaten egg to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3mm.
5. Spoon the beef and olive mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1cm border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
7. Brush the tops with a little water and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

And that's it! Your Italian beef olives with an Australian twist are ready to be devoured. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This Italian beef olives recipe with an Australian twist is a true reflection of the country's cultural diversity. By incorporating native ingredients and flavors, we've created a dish that's both authentic and innovative. So, the next time you're entertaining or looking for a new culinary adventure, give this recipe a try and taste the fusion of Italian and Australian flavors.