Strawberry gum (also known as Eucalyptus Olida) is a medium size tree, which grows in the northern tablelands of New South Wales and Victoria.
Strawberry gum is the original chewing gum! Indigenous Australians passing through the Northern Tablelands would often chew on the leaves of the Strawberry Gum for their sweet berry flavour. They would also moisten the leaves and lay them over a fire to release their fragrant oils, which would help to calm stomach problems.
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Flavour:
Sweet, rich berry and mild eucalyptus flavour, slight acidic notes reminiscent of balsamic vinegar, and spiced cinnamon undertones.
Palate:
Rich berry and passionfruit on the front palate, with spiced cinnamon notes on the back palate.
Aroma:
A pleasant sweet strawberry and passionfruit aroma with cinnamon notes.
Strawberry gum is a great flavour enhancer and, where it doesn’t add its own distinctive flavour, it ties other flavours together and makes them more distinct.
Strawberry gum is a great enhancer for curries, mustard, vinaigrettes, preserves and chutneys, fruit cakes or anywhere rich fruit flavours are being combined.
Strawberry gum pairs perfectly with cream-based desserts, such as ice cream, cheesecake, crème brulée and panna cotta, and complements white chocolate and vanilla. It is perfect for baked goods, desserts and biscuits, such as sweet breads, apple pie, sponge cake, scones, pavlova, macarons and shortbread biscuits. Add half a teaspoon of finely milled strawberry gum to whipped cream with a little vanilla and take your scones and pancakes to another level of deliciousness.
Strawberry gum can also be used as a refreshing tea infusion, and lifts the profile of clear spirits such as gin, vodka and white rum. It is a great natural flavour for soda, tonic water, mineral water and lemonade.
Click here for delicious Strawberry Gum recipes.
