Australian Bush Damper

This article will show you step by step, how to prepare and cook Oz Bush Damper.

"Camp Oven" method
Serves 4

1. 3 cups of plain flour

2. 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder

3. 3 tablespoons milk powder

4. 4 tablespoons sugar (for sweet Damper - Called Johnny Cake)

5. 2/3 cup of raisins or dried mixed fruit

6. 1/4 cup of oil (preferably Olive Oil)

7. Water as required

Method
Mix all the dry ingredients together well.
Then add the oil and 'rub' into dry mix.
Then add water and mix until you have a 'bread dough consistency'
Do not forget to oil the inside of Camp Oven
It is now ready to cook. (for cooking instructions see pictures below)

Note; The above 'mix' can be made two or three days prior to use if
kept under refrigeration. You could make at home before camping.
(As dry ingredients, they are good for months)

By doubling the ingredients, you can serve 8 and will still fit in the Camp oven.
Add a little extra hot coals (about 1 level spade) and 15 min to the cooking time.
Remember, leaving the Camp Oven underground longer, if not sure,
will not harm the Damper.
The main heat has gone during the first 30 minutes.

Bread Damper
Substitute the sugar with salt to taste.
Substitute the Fruit with Fresh or dried.
crushed Garlic and Herbs of your choice.

Prepare a fire using wood large enough to produce 'coals' and not ashes. This would take about two hours

Dig a hole so that there is enough room for the Camp Oven and 4" all round for hot coals

Oil Camp oven and place Damper mix as shown

Put 3" - 4" bed of very hot coals and place Camp Oven on the coals. Then fill around sides with coals and then a layer of coals on the top.

Seal the whole lot with 3" - 4" of soil and pat lightly. Be sure to leave the handle protruding out of the soil
(see photo above)

60 minutes later, grab the handle (not hot) and pull the oven directly upwards and out .

Do not disturb the lid as you remove the warm coals and soil. Scrape most off with a stick and I then use a hand brush to remove ashes.