Ep 7. Kununurra

Taste of Australia season 2 episode 7, titled Kununurra, takes viewers on a journey to the remote town nestled in the heart of the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Hosted by chef and TV presenter Hayden Quinn, the episode is dedicated to discovering local culinary traditions, meeting passionate food artisans and chefs, and exploring the pristine natural surroundings that inspire their cooking.

The episode begins with an aerial view of the stunning landscape that defines Kununurra, an oasis town in the middle of vast savannah and rugged ranges. Hayden explains that the region is home to some of the most unique and diverse produce in Australia, including tropical fruits, freshwater fish, and wild game. He meets up with a local guide who takes him on a boat trip along the Ord River, where he learns about the history of the area and its importance to the local Indigenous communities.

The first stop on the culinary tour of Kununurra is a visit to a local farm that specializes in exotic fruits. Hayden meets the owner, who shows him around the plantation and introduces him to some of the delicious fruits that grow on their land, such as mangosteen, rambutan, and durian. Hayden also learns about the challenges of growing tropical fruits in a harsh and remote environment, and how the farm is working to overcome them.

Next up is a visit to a local café and bakery that serves up some of the best pastries and coffee in town. Hayden chats with the owner, who is also a passionate pastry chef, about her commitment to using local ingredients and flavors in her creations. Hayden also tries some of the café's signature dishes, such as croissants filled with wild boar and native spices, and a coffee-infused bread and butter pudding.

The episode's focus then shifts to the traditional cuisine of the local Indigenous communities, who have lived off the land and waterways of the Kimberley for thousands of years. Hayden meets with a group of elders who teach him about the unique ingredients and cooking techniques used in Aboriginal cuisine. Hayden then visits a local restaurant that specializes in serving up modern takes on traditional dishes, such as kangaroo and emu sausages, barramundi curry, and damper bread made with native nuts and berries.

The final segment of the episode takes viewers on a helicopter tour of the Kimberley region, showcasing its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Hayden meets up with a local fishing guide who takes him out to catch some of the region's famous freshwater fish, such as barramundi and saratoga. Hayden then heads back to the kitchen to cook up a delicious fish dish using the fresh catch, with some help from the local chefs he has met along the way.

Overall, Taste of Australia season 2 episode 7 is a celebration of the people, places, and flavors that make Kununurra and the Kimberley region such a unique and special destination for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.