chapter 7 - food tech

unit 1

How did the Gold Rush impact Australian cuisine?

From 1851, migrants—especially Chinese—brought vegetable gardens, herbs, and cooking styles, introducing early Chinese eateries near goldfields.

What countries did post-WWII migrants come from?

Greece, Italy, Poland, West Germany, Netherlands, Turkey (1945–1970s), many working on the Snowy Mountains Scheme.

What was the “Populate or Perish” policy?

A post-WWII slogan encouraging mass immigration to increase Australia’s population.

How did post-WWII European migrants shape cuisine?

Opened cafés, food stores, introduced pasta, salami, olives, feta, pastries, and changed food habits—especially in Melbourne.

What influence did the 1956 Melbourne Olympics have?

Brought international chefs, introduced diverse global cuisines to local people.

When did Vietnamese migration begin and why?

After 1975, due to the Vietnam War. Thousands of “boat people” fled and settled in Australia.

What food influence did Vietnamese migrants bring?

Rice dishes, herbs (lemongrass, mint, lime leaf), nuoc cham sauce, pho, spring rolls, and fresh, herb-based cuisine.

Who arrived during refugee resettlements (1980s–2000s)?

Migrants from Afghanistan, Congo, East Timor, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Ethiopia, and the Balkans.

How did refugee communities influence Australian food?

Introduced traditional foods like Afghan rice (chalu), injera (Ethiopian bread), spices, curries, and stews from diverse global cuisines.

When did Greek migration increase significantly?

Major waves post-WWII, though Greek settlers have been arriving since the First Fleet.

What are common Greek ingredients?

Feta, Greek yoghurt, olives, olive oil, lemon, eggplant, capsicum, oregano, mint, lamb, and filo pastry.

What are popular Greek dishes?

Moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, tzatziki, saganaki, dolmades, loukoumades, baklava.

How is Greek food typically prepared?

Roasted lamb, grilled meats, baked veggies, fried eggplant/zucchini, meals shared family-style.

What are key Greek food customs?

Long, late lunches and dinners, sharing mezze platters, celebrating Easter with koulourakia biscuits and roast meats.

What is the role of religion in Greek food traditions?

Many Orthodox Greeks fast before Easter and Christmas, with restrictions on meat, fish, and oil.

What is filo pastry and how is it used?

Paper-thin dough used in savoury (e.g. spanakopita) and sweet (e.g. baklava) Greek dishes.

What is tzatziki and how is it served?

A yoghurt, cucumber, and garlic dip, served with bread or grilled meats to balance strong flavours.

What are loukoumades?

Deep-fried dough balls, drizzled with honey and cinnamon—served as dessert.

How does Greek regional geography influence food?

Mountain areas focus on cheeses and stews; coastal areas use fresh seafood and vegetables.

How have Greek migrants influenced modern Australian eating habits?

Normalised dishes like souvlaki, Greek salads, and feta; helped diversify supermarket ingredients.