A Unique Journey Through New South Wales
Celebrity chef Rick Stein has always had a special connection with Australia. He first visited the country as a 19-year-old following a family tragedy, spending several years in Australia and New Zealand. Although his cooking career began after he returned to the UK, his ties to Australia have remained strong, largely due to his Australian wife. Now, he’s back once again to explore the food of this vibrant nation.
Australia has long been known for its deep connection between food and travel. SBS has an entire channel dedicated to this theme, but Rick Stein’s Australia is breaking new ground by airing on their main channel. This six-part series offers a unique perspective that goes beyond typical travel shows. As an internationally renowned chef, Stein brings both an outsider’s view and a deep understanding of Australia, making the series more than just a visual tour.
A Very Small Bite of Australia
The title of the series might be slightly misleading. Stein never ventures beyond the borders of New South Wales, which is where he spent much of his youth. A significant part of the series involves him retracing his steps through the state. However, if you’re hoping for a visit to famous locations outside of NSW, such as the now-closed Geelong hot dog stand Doggy Style, you may be disappointed.
Stein has spent his life searching for “perfect, simple dishes,” and this series explores how Australia and its food have evolved since his teenage years. Some changes are predictable—waves of immigration since the 1960s have brought a wide range of cultures and cuisines. But has even the traditional meat pie kept up with the times?
Understanding Culture Through Food
One of the most intriguing aspects of the series is the cultural exploration it offers. The second episode begins with a thought-provoking question: has Australia’s outdoor culture influenced its food? While fine dining is often associated with indoor societies, can a classy barbie exist in an outdoor setting?
Each episode runs for about an hour, allowing time for history lessons, nature documentaries, cultural exposés, and visits with local characters. The show also includes a touch of NSW tourism, showcasing the state in a very positive light. From the lush coastline to the bustling cities and the dusty outback (which turns out to be much wetter than expected), Stein’s enthusiasm and curiosity shine through.
The food in the series is abundant and appealing. Stein covers a wide range of culinary experiences, from First Nations cooking to pork dumplings and outback feeds. He explores various levels of dining, from campfires to fine dining, while also highlighting the variety of fish found both inland and in the ocean—often served with chips—and meat pies.
Taking Food Out of the Box
A significant portion of the series involves Stein returning home after his explorations to create new recipes inspired by what he has encountered. While it’s unlikely that many viewers will attempt to recreate his recipes, they are designed to appeal to television audiences. The steps are easy to follow, the ingredients make sense, and the final result looks so delicious that even if you don’t cook it yourself, you’ll wish someone would do it for you.
This kind of series is typically aimed at attracting international food lovers. There’s no need to convince Australians of the quality of their food—the point is to entice overseas viewers with the promise of delicious cuisine.
A Gracious and Engaging Host
The strength of Rick Stein’s Australia lies in Stein’s gracious and engaging personality. Watching the country through his eyes becomes a compelling reason to tune in. His knowledge of food adds another layer of appeal, and who doesn’t enjoy seeing a tasty meal?
Rick Stein’s Australia premieres on 30 April on SBS and SBS On Demand. Discover more screen, games & arts news and reviews on ArtsHub and ArtsHub. Sign up for our free ArtsHub and newsletters.
Exploring New Culinary Horizons
Throughout the series, Stein’s journey is not just about food; it’s about connecting with the land and its people. His interactions with locals and his willingness to learn and adapt add depth to the show. Whether he’s discussing the history of a dish or trying something entirely new, his approach is respectful and insightful.
Stein’s ability to blend personal stories with cultural insights makes the series both informative and entertaining. He doesn’t just showcase the food; he tells the story behind it, offering viewers a deeper understanding of Australia’s diverse culinary landscape.
As the series progresses, it becomes clear that Stein is not only celebrating the food of New South Wales but also highlighting the richness of its culture. His passion for discovery and his genuine curiosity make the show a must-watch for anyone interested in food, travel, or Australian culture.
