Tips for Cooking Kakadu Plum for the First Time

Kakadu Plum, also known as Gubinge, Billygoat Plum, or Murunga, is a native Australian fruit celebrated for its exceptional nutritional properties and unique flavor. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Kakadu Plum has been used by Indigenous Australians for thousands of years for its medicinal and culinary benefits. If you’re cooking with Kakadu Plum for the first time, here are some tips to help you make the most of this remarkable fruit.

Understanding Kakadu Plum

What is Kakadu Plum?

Kakadu Plum is a small greenish fruit that grows in the wild in Northern Australia. It has a tart and slightly sour taste, similar to a mix of citrus and apple. The fruit is often used in jams, sauces, and desserts, but it can also be incorporated into savory dishes.

Nutritional Benefits

Kakadu Plum is a powerhouse of nutrients. It has the highest recorded vitamin C content of any fruit, making it an excellent immune booster. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body, and contains essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and calcium.

Preparing Kakadu Plum

Sourcing

When buying Kakadu Plum, it’s important to source it sustainably. Look for products from reputable suppliers who support Indigenous communities and practice sustainable harvesting.

Cleaning and Storage

Fresh Kakadu Plums should be washed thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If you can’t find fresh plums, dried or frozen Kakadu Plum is a good alternative. Store fresh plums in the refrigerator and use them within a few days. Dried or frozen plums can be kept for longer periods.

Cooking with Kakadu Plum

Making Kakadu Plum Jam

Ingredients:

• 500g Kakadu Plums
• 250g sugar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Wash and pit the Kakadu Plums.
2. In a large pot, combine the plums, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
5. Pour the jam into sterilized jars and let it cool before sealing.

Creating a Kakadu Plum Sauce

Ingredients:

• 250g Kakadu Plums
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Wash and pit the Kakadu Plums.
2. In a blender, combine the plums, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth.
4. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Use the sauce as a marinade for meats or a topping for grilled vegetables.

Baking with Kakadu Plum

Kakadu Plum Muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 cup chopped Kakadu Plums

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped Kakadu Plums.
6. Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tin.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Adding to Savory Dishes

Kakadu Plum and Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup sliced Kakadu Plums
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook until tender.
5. Stir in the Kakadu Plums and soy sauce.
6. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the plums are soft.
7. Serve over rice or noodles.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

Balancing Tartness

Kakadu Plum is naturally tart, so balancing its flavor with sweetness is important. Honey, sugar, or other sweet fruits can help mellow the tartness.

Pairing with Other Ingredients

Kakadu Plum pairs well with both sweet and savory ingredients. Try combining it with other native Australian ingredients like lemon myrtle or bush tomatoes. It also complements spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Experimenting with Textures

Kakadu Plum can be used in various forms: fresh, dried, or as a puree. Experiment with different textures in your recipes to add complexity and interest to your dishes.

Cooking with Kakadu Plum for the first time can be a delightful adventure. This unique fruit, with its rich nutritional profile and distinct tart flavor, offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. From making jams and sauces to baking muffins and creating savory stir-fries, there are many ways to enjoy Kakadu Plum. So, put away the meat pies and parmas for a minute and try something better! Remember to balance its tartness with sweetness, pair it with complementary ingredients, and experiment with different textures.

By following these tips, you can create delicious dishes that showcase the best of this native Australian treasure. Embrace the opportunity to explore and savor the culinary potential of Kakadu Plum, and enjoy the benefits of incorporating this superfood into your diet.