The History of the Australian Parmigiana: A Classic Pub Dish

The Origin of The Australian Parmigiana

The Parmigiana is an Italian dish that traditionally consists of eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese. The dish made its way to Australia, most likely through Italian immigrants, in the early 20th century. However, it wasn't until the post-World War II period that the dish began to gain popularity in Australia.

Post-World War II Era

The post-World War II period in Australia was a time of great change. Waves of immigrants from all over the world came to Australia, bringing with them new and exciting ideas about food and culture. Italian migration to Australia was significant during this time, and Italian cuisine became popular.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Parmigiana became a popular dish in Australian restaurants and cafes. As more Australians traveled overseas, they brought back new and exciting foods, including Italian cuisine. The Parmigiana was a dish that was easy to prepare and was a hit with Australians, making it a staple on the menus of many restaurants.traditionally served as a vegetarian dish made with sliced eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese.

How The Australian Parmigiana Became So Popular

The Parmigiana quickly became a popular dish in Australian pubs in the 1980s and 1990s. It was often served as a counter meal, which was a cheap, filling meal available at the bar. The dish became a favorite among beer drinkers, who enjoyed the hearty and flavorful meal.

Over time, different variations of the Parmigiana were introduced, such as the Mexican-inspired "Tex-Mex Parmigiana" or the "Hawaiian Parmigiana," which featured pineapple and ham toppings. Despite these additions, the classic Chicken or Eggplant Parmigiana has remained the most popular version of the dish and a true Australian classic.

From its humble beginnings as a vegetarian eggplant dish in Italy to its transformation into a hearty pub classic in Australia, the Parmigiana has truly become a cultural icon. Whether you prefer chicken or eggplant, traditional or with a twist, there's a Parmigiana to satisfy every taste. So the next time you visit your local pub or cook at home, give this classic dish a try.

Now that you know a bit more about the history of the Australian Parmigiana, why not doing it at home and share it with us? Take a picture or video of your creation and share it on social media using the hashtag #hiverecipes, so we can see your delicious creations.