Bush Foods
From Country To You
“Bush foods are for everyone”
– Rayleen Brown
Enjoy ethically sourced, organic bush food straight from the Central Desert. These foods have been enjoyed by Aboriginal communities for over 60,000 years. We have shortened the supply chain so that local women harvesters benefit from every purchase.
Bush Detox Tea
Botanical name: Cymbopogon ambiguus (Lemongrass)
Our Wild Lemongrass Tea Blend is a refreshing infusion crafted to help combat bloating and stress. This invigorating tea features aromatic lemongrass, known for its uplifting flavor and natural digestive properties. Each sip delivers a zesty, citrusy flavor that revitalises the senses while promoting relaxation.
Rich in antioxidants, our blend not only aids in digestion but also supports overall wellness, making it a perfect choice for those seeking relief after meals or a calming moment in a hectic day.
Cleanse and refresh with our Detox Bush Tea, a soothing blend of native lemongrass, lemon myrtle, and wattleseed. Traditionally used for their cleansing and calming benefits, these bush botanicals support digestion and natural balance. Light, earthy, and aromatic — a perfect everyday tea for inner wellness and a moment of peace.
Naturally caffeine-free | Handcrafted on Country | Ethically sourced
Enjoy this special blend of bush chai tea that will let you savor the fragrances and flavors of the Central Desert of Australia. Each sip offers a unique taste experience, combining traditional spices with the rich essence of indigenous botanicals. Perfect for those moments when you want to indulge in a warm, soothing beverage, this chai tea captures the spirit of the Australian outback. Embrace the journey of flavors with every cup.
Warm your spirit with our Bush Chai, a native twist on a timeless favourite. Infused with cinnamon myrtle, aniseed myrtle, pepperberry, and honeybush, this aromatic blend offers a bold and comforting flavour. Perfect on its own or with milk, it’s a delicious way to experience the richness of the Australian bush.
Richly spiced | Small-batch blended | 100% natural ingredients
Ingredients
Black tea, wattle and native pepper, spices and pepper berry
Note: Water temperatures that are too hot dissolve tannins and destroy the other desirable compounds in tea. Thermal shock from overly hot water can also burn sensitive tea leaves & Spices. The primary rule to remember when heating water to brew tea is to never boil the water.
Introducing our Bush Tomato Chutney—a delightful blend of sweet and spiced flavors that will elevate your culinary creations. This unique chutney is crafted from premium bush tomatoes, bringing a taste of the Australian outback right to your kitchen.
Perfect for sandwiches, our Bush Tomato Chutney adds a rich, tangy sweetness that complements meats and veggies alike. Whether you’re layering it on a classic ham and cheese or crafting a gourmet vegan delight, this chutney transforms every bite into a sensory experience.
But it doesn’t stop there! This versatile chutney is also a fantastic addition to cheeseboards, pairing beautifully with a variety of cheeses. Its distinctive flavor will surprise and please your guests, making it an essential item for entertaining.
Enhance your meals and impress your friends with the delicious versatility of our Bush Tomato Chutney. Add it to your pantry today and savor the taste of Australia in every jar!
Introducing Red Desert Rub, a unique seasoning blend that brings the essence of Australia’s outback straight to your kitchen. Crafted with care, our rub features wild-harvested bush tomatoes and fragrant native thyme, celebrating indigenous culinary traditions. Infused with Moroccan-style flavors, Red Desert Rub delivers a captivating, aromatic experience that will elevate any dish.
Perfect for meats, vegetables, and even as a zesty addition to marinades, this blend offers a versatile way to explore flavors reminiscent of both Australian and Moroccan cuisines. The bush tomatoes lend a rich, tangy sweetness, while the native thyme adds an earthy undertone, creating a complex and satisfying taste profile.
Supporting sustainable practices, we source our bush tomatoes through Indigenous Women, ensuring that every purchase contributes to the preservation of traditional harvesting methods and promotes local livelihoods.
Transform your meals with the bold and vibrant flavors of Red Desert Rub and discover a culinary journey like no other.
Introducing our Quandong Jam, a delightful spread crafted from the vibrant, locally harvested Quandong fruit found in the Central Desert of Australia. This ancient desert fruit has been treasured by Indigenous communities for thousands of years, celebrated for its unique taste and incredible health benefits.
Rich in antioxidants and packed with flavor, our Quandong Jam is made with all-natural ingredients and absolutely no artificial preservatives. Each jar embodies the essence of the Australian outback, bringing a taste of tradition and a burst of energy to your breakfast table. Whether spread on toast, dolloped on scones, or used as a delicious ingredient in your cooking, this jam is a versatile addition to your pantry.
Support Indigenous practices and enjoy the exceptional taste of our Quandong Jam. Experience a true connection to the land and its heritage with every spoonful. Elevate your meals with this remarkable jam, and relish the goodness of nature's ancient bounty.
Kungkas Bush Teas x 2 Kungkas Bush Chai and Bush Detox Tea, Ground Desert Raisin 50gm x 1, Bush Spice Rub 50gm x 1, Wattleseed Roasted & Ground 50gm x 1, Quandong Jam 125g Fav Jars x 1, Desert Raisin Chutney 125gm Fav Jar x 1 + Mug Central Australian indigenous artists designs and Warlukurlangu Artists Christmas Bauble
Our innovative blend of wild harvested wattleseed nuts, seeds, and spices is a unique mix designed to elevate your culinary creations, offering a delicious and nutritious addition to your favorite dishes.
Perfectly versatile, our blend enhances the flavor of roasted vegetables, adds a delightful crunch to rustic bread when paired with good olive oil, and serves as a wholesome alternative to croutons in salads. Each spoonful brings a wealth of taste and texture, making it an essential pantry item for any home cook or gourmet chef.
Harness the rich, nutty flavors of wattleseed, combined with carefully selected seeds and spices, to create memorable meals that nourish both the body and soul. Suitable for all diets, this blend is not only a culinary delight but also a step towards embracing sustainable and local ingredients. Experience the vibrant tastes of Australia with every sprinkle!
Discover the incredible blend of Saltbush Dukkah, a unique flavor enhancer that elevates your culinary creations. This versatile ingredients pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, adding a subtle, earthy depth that complements their natural sweetness. Sprinkle it over crusty bread drizzled with high-quality olive oil for a simple yet indulgent treat that highlights the saltbush's distinctive taste.
Ideal for seasoning dishes, saltbush dukkah also adds a delightful twist to dips and dressings. Its rich, savory profile enhances everything from grilled meats, especially baked on chicken breast and a perfect alternative to croutons on salads, making it a must-have in any kitchen. Experience the vibrant essence of the Australian landscape with this exceptional wild ingredient that brings a touch of nature to your dining table.
Botanical name: Acacia victoriae
Wattleseed ‘Awenth’ for the Alyawarr language
Our wild harvested wattleseed is a unique culinary treasure gathered by Indigenous women in the heart of Central Australia’s desert. Our vision is to improve the lives of women and their families by supporting cultural activities, generate income and enriching knowledge to the younger generations whilst keeping country strong.
This remarkable ingredient boasts an enticing aroma reminiscent of toasted coffee grounds, entwined with sweet spice and hints of raisin and chocolate.
The flavor profile is dominated by a rich, nutty coffee essence that adds depth to both sweet and savory dishes. When incorporated into your cooking, wattleseed enhances everything from baked goods to marinades, offering a truly authentic taste of the Australian outback.
Support Indigenous practices while enjoying the distinct flavors of this sustainably sourced ingredient, perfect for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Discover the versatility of wattleseed and bring a touch of the desert to your kitchen.
Nutritional Information (per 100grams)
Energy 1183kJ, H2O 1.7g, Protein 20.3g, Total fat 6.1g, Carbohydrates 10.5g, Fibre 54.2g
Recommendations
Use in flour for cakes or bread in the ratio 1 cup flour to 1 tbsp of roasted ground wattle seed. Add to ice cream or whipped cream for a nutty roasted flavour. Another great way to utilise wattle seed by adding to a vanilla or banana smoothie a great way to start your day.
Health benefits
High in iron, potassium, zinc, protein, unsaturated fat and dietary fibre. Low GI which makes it beneficial for diabetics. The seeds are full of fiber, protein and carbohydrates. In all the species, energy content is quite high. Scientists are trying to find out its medicinal properties, in fight against cancer.
Roasted Wattleseed Syrup
40g wattleseed
2 cups water
1 cup sugar
Add all the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to the boil allow to thicken. Cool and bottle. Keep refrigerated. Use to flavour cheesecakes, drinks or a dessert topping.
Botanical name: Atriplex nummularia
Our premium dried saltbush leaves are harvested fresh and dehydrated to preserve their distinctive salty herb flavor. These versatile leaves are perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.
Add a unique twist to your quiches, dips, soups, and breads with just a sprinkle of saltbush. This delightful herb pairs beautifully with light flavors such as chicken, fish, and soft cheese, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
You can also elevate rice and potato dishes, bringing a savory depth that complements other ingredients. Experience the versatility and robust flavor of saltbush and transform your meals into something extraordinary.
Uses
Ideal for grills, pasta, batter, salad and dukkah.
Health benefits
Saltbush contains a range of minerals, including calcium and magnesium, antioxidants, Vitamin E and is high in protein (28% protein).
‘Aketyerr’ for the Alyawarr language group, Botanical name: Solanum centrale, also called the Bush Tomato
Savoury caramelised aroma of carob; some cereal notes with a sweet and savory taste.
Our desert raisin (also known as the bush tomato) is wild harvested in the Central Desert by indigenous women. Our vision is to improve the lives of women and their families by supporting cultural activities and income generation and enriching knowledge to the younger generations and keeping country strong.
The desert raisin is probably the most important of all the Central Australian plant foods. It is a good source of selenium, potassium and iron.
Nutritional Information (per 100grams)
Energy 998 Kj, Protein 10.3g, Total fat 6g, Total saturated fatty acids 1.5 g Carbohydrates 29.2g, Sugar (total) 29g
Health Benefits
Contains more antioxidants than blueberries and selenium, a rare mineral which plays a key role in the metabolism. A rich source of minerals, particularly potassium, it is also high in vitamin C.
Recommendations
Bush tomato is usually used in its dried form. It has a distinctive raisin / caramel introduction with a strong spicy aftertaste, making it ideal for chutneys, curries, salsas and as a crust on Meats. The trick with it is not too use too much. Add a teaspoonful to any tomato based sauce.
Ground, it can be found in bread mixes, herb blends, pasta, relishes, dressings, sauces and dukkah.
A major strength of the bush tomato is its unique and intense flavour, which retains its integrity in many applications and in relatively small ratios to total ingredient mass.
Handrawn image credit: The bush raisin plant by Rayleen’s son Rueben Brown
Botanical name: Backhousia citriodora
Grows in the coastal rainforest regions between Brisbane and Mackay in QLD
Health Benefits
The key ingredient in lemon myrtle is the high concentration of citral in its leaves. Citral comprises 90-98% of the essential oils in lemon myrtle, as opposed to less than 10% in lemons and limes. Some of the characteristics of citral include:
Citral is an anti-fungal agent.
Citral is non-acidic.
Citral is high in anti-oxidants.
The list of reputed health benefits of lemon myrtle tea is voluminous. Just some of the disorders it is said to be able to relieve include muscle cramps and spasms, rheumatism, headaches and fevers. The citral help boost the immune system. A pleasant tasting tea, it is used alone or in combination with green tea as a caffeine free replacement for coffee and black tea.
Aromatherapists and herbalists use lemon myrtle and its essential oil for a variety of reasons. No one who has experienced its fragrant aroma denies that it has a wonderfully relaxing effect and it is also said to improve concentration as well as promote better sleep. It is used as an inhalant to treat colds, flus and other congestive disorders. Used topically, it is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including warts and herpes simplex. Although lemon myrtle oil can be applied to the skin full strength, it is usually advised to dilute it with more neutral vegetable oils.
With so many of our naturally therapeutic herbs and other plants coming from overseas, it's nice to know that some of the best of them, including lemon myrtle tea, come from right here in Australia.
Botanical name: Anetholea anirata
The Anise Myrtle, native to the rain forests of New South Wales, is a versatile herb utilized in various culinary applications, including sauces, beverages, curries, and cakes. Its notable health benefits stem from its high antioxidant activity, rich magnesium content, and as a good source of lutein, folate, vitamin E, and vitamin C. Furthermore, Anise Myrtle exhibits anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, making it beneficial for both health and flavor.
The leaves of the Anise Myrtle are particularly rich in anethole, the compound responsible for its distinctive aniseed flavor and aroma. This characteristic not only enhances dishes but also adds a unique twist to traditional recipes, encouraging the exploration of its potential in modern cooking, is a great addition to your green vegetables for example for beans, broccoli and any beetroot dishes.
Botanical name: Tasmannia lanceolata
The Pepper Berry, known for its vibrant flavor profile, is renowned for being wild harvested in Tasmania and Victoria. This unique berry is not only a delightful addition to culinary creations but also serves as an excellent source of Vitamin C found in both its leaves and berries. The Pepper Berry is recognized for its preservative capabilities, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. With a sweet aroma reminiscent of traditional pepper, it is often referred to as Mountain Pepper or Tasmanian Pepper.
Incorporating Pepper Berry into your recipes elevates dishes, such as pepper steak sauce or aioli. Additionally, its aromatic qualities enhance seasonings, marinades, and rubs, providing a depth of flavor that complements both savory and sweet baked goods. Use it in muffins and cakes to introduce a unique spice that will surprise and delight the palate.
Kungka's Bush Spice Rub enhances a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. Its blend of saltbush flakes, sea salt, native pepperleaf, pepperberry, and garlic creates a unique flavor profile that complements chicken, burgers, and roast meats beautifully. It's also an excellent seasoning for hot potato chips and baked flatbreads, providing an extra layer of taste that elevates your meals. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply adding a kick to snacks, this spice rub is sure to impress.
Botanical name: Hibiscus sabdariffa
Health Benefits
Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and makes a wonderful herbal remedy to fight off colds and infections by strengthening the immune system.
Drinking rosella tea may aid in alleviating cramps and menstrual pain while also restoring hormonal balance.
Hibiscus tea contains an enzyme inhibitor which blocks the production of amylase. Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and starches.
Kick off your morning with a nourishing bowl of bush food muesli that celebrates the unique flavors of the Australian outback. This delightful blend features nutty wattleseed, tangy bush tomato, and the sweet taste of dried quandong, bringing the essence of the Central Desert straight to your breakfast table. Packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors, this muesli not only fuels your body but also connects you to the rich traditions of bush food.
Enjoy it with your favorite milk or yogurt, or sprinkle it atop fresh fruit for an invigorating start to your day.
Botanical name: Santalum acuminatum
Quandong is indeed a highly nutritious fruit, recognised for its impressive antioxidant properties. Its rich vitamin E content, along with vitamins and minerals such as folate, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and iron, surpasses that of blueberries, which are often seen as a benchmark for nutritional value.
The high levels of Vitamin C further contribute to its health benefits. Including quandong as a convenient snack option can enhance your diet and provide a boost of essential nutrients.
Teas Spiced Wattleseed Tea & Bush Detox Tea + Tea Cup (featuring local central desert artists design)
Botanical name: Eucalyptus Olinda
Strawberry Gum is used to enhance the flavor of cooked fruit dishes, desserts such as crème brûlée, pavlova, macaroons, panacotta, it also matches beautifully with chocolate or vanilla ice-cream, chocolates, or spiced jams, bringing out the classic Berry’ flavor. Also used in herbal teas.
Helps to balance gut micro-flora, which helps to calm the stomach and improve general intestinal health.
Our Boab is sourced from 100% indigenous owned suppliers wild harvested, natural unprocessed and organic fruit powder.
Boab Powder can be added to smoothies & Juices. Sprinkled on your morning muesli, great in protein balls and used in desserts such as sorbets and ice cream.
Did you know that the Boab fruit has more antioxidants than pomegranate, more potassium than bananas and more vitamin C than oranges or acai berries! Baobab has been celebrated in Australia for thousands of years because of its nutritional benefits. Here are the top reasons why Boab Powder is so super:
High in fibre, providing more than 30% soluble fibre
Rich in vitamins & minerals particularly vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium
Packed with antioxidants and flavonoids - more than goji berries, pomegranate & blueberries!
Powerfully probiotic which is beneficial for digestion and gut health
Supports healthy immune function
Helps to sustain energy and beat those 3pm chocolate cravings!
Artisan Products
‘Mangata’ for Pitjantjatjara language group, Botanical name: Santalum acuminatum
Also called the Native Peach the Quandong grows in southern Northern Territory and South Australia.
We have three sizes of gum nuts available for your next display or artistic endeavour.
NOTE: These are not edible products
Meet Rayleen
Learn more about the Kungkas Can Cook story and founder Rayleen. You can also book her here for Bush Food Tours and speaking engagements at your events.
Our spiced wattle tea blend is a unique and flavorful combination of wild harvested wattle seed, native pepper, and other traditional spices. Wattle seed adds a nutty and slightly roasted flavor, while native pepper brings a subtle heat and complexity to the blend. The additional spices add depth and warmth, making this tea perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings.
Enjoy a cup of our spiced wattle tea blend on its own or with a splash of milk and honey for a truly indulgent treat. Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of the Australian bush with every sip of this delicious tea blend.