Minced Beef and Cheese Damper Bites
Inspired by rustic Australian outback fare, these Minced Beef and Cheese Damper Bites integrate traditional damper bread with a savory filling that will captivate your taste buds. An easy-to-eat, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, this dish fuses hearty, rich beef and sharp cheese flavors with the soft, pillowy embrace of damper bread, creating a comforting yet refined experience.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (minced beef) - Choose grass-fed for more flavor
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cheddar cheese - Grated, sharp, high-quality cheese works best
½ cup onion - Finely chopped, sweet onion preferred
½ teaspoon garlic powder - For a hint of savory depth
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika - Adds a subtle smokiness- 2 cups self-raising flour
1 cup milk - Full cream for richness
¼ cup butter - Cold and cut into cubes
1 teaspoon salt - Fine sea salt for better distribution
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, enhancing its sweetness.
- Add minced beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula. Add garlic powder and smoked paprika; stir well.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt gently within the warmth of the beef.
- In a large bowl, combine self-raising flour and salt. Use your fingertips to rub the cold butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring with a knife until a soft dough forms. Be gentle to maintain a light texture.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly for just a few turns. Roll out to approximately 1cm thickness.
- Cut into 6cm circles using a cutter or glass. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each circle and fold over, sealing the edges by pinching.
- Place the damper bites on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with a little milk for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. The damper should be crisp on the outside, soft on the inside.
Notes
For a twist on classic damper, try adding a handful of finely chopped herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the batter.
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