Saltbush
Saltbush, which encompasses several varities - all feature silvery-grey foliage with a bushy appearance. Indigenous to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. The leaves of the plant are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, giving them a complex herbal and naturally saline flavour that’s perfect for savoury dishes.
On top of being downright delicious, saltbush plays a vital role in ecosystem restoration and soil conservation. This hardy shrub is well-adapted to thrive in challenging environments, including saline soils and drought conditions, where it helps to stabilize soils, improve soil fertility, and provide habitat and food for native fauna.
Common Names: Saltbush, Salt Bush
Scientific Name: Ruby Saltbush (Enchylaena tomentosa), Grey Saltbush (Atriplex cinerea), Old Man Saltbush (Atriplex nummularia), Creeping Berry Saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata ), Spiny Saltbush (Chenopodium / Rhagodia spinescens), Sea Berry Saltbush (Chenopodium baccatum), Wallaby Saltbush (Threlkeldia diffusa)
Seasonality: Saltbush is available year-round in regions where it grows abundantly.
Types: While Atriplex nummularia is the most common species, there are other species of saltbush with similar characteristics, including Atriplex halimus and Atriplex cinerea.
Growing Region: Indigenous to arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, including parts of South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia.
Old man saltbush growing regions
Flavour
Saltbush has a unique salty and herbaceous flavour profile, with undertones of minerality. Its leaves contain natural salts, giving dishes seasoned with saltbush a distinctive savoury taste reminiscent of sea salt. The flavour can vary depending on the species and growing conditions, but the popular old man saltbush has an earth, oregano-like taste.
Usage
Saltbush is utilized in various culinary applications, imparting its characteristic flavour and nutritional benefits to a wide range of dishes. Here are some common uses of saltbush:
Seasoning: Saltbush leaves can be used as a natural seasoning in place of or in combination with traditional salt. They add a savoury touch to meats, vegetables, and grains, enhancing the overall flavour profile of the dish.
Salads and Garnishes: Fresh saltbush leaves can be used to add a salty and herbaceous element to salads or used as a garnish for plating, adding visual appeal and flavour complexity.
Breads and Baked Goods: Saltbush can be incorporated into bread doughs or baked goods, like damper and bush bread.
Infusions: Saltbush leaves can be infused into oils, vinegars, or sauces to create flavourful bases for dressings, marinades, or condiments.