Mabu Mabu: An Australian Kitchen Cookbook

Nornie Bero is a First Nations chef who champions the native flavors of Australia in her everyday cooking. She grew up on Mer in the Torres Strait and now runs Mabu Mabu, a renowned restaurant in Melbourne. Her book, "Mabu Mabu," reflects her approach to cooking, which is simple, accessible, delicious, and colorful. She shares her knowledge of foraging, sourcing, and substitutions, as well as the story of her formative years foraging, fishing, and cooking alongside her father.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2022
Publisher: Hardie Grant Books

In the enchanting world of Mabu Mabu, a charismatic First Nations chef named Nornie Bero takes us on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of native flavors in everyday cooking. With a deep reverence for Australian herbs, spices, vegetables, and fruits, Nornie skillfully unlocks the secrets of these indigenous ingredients, infusing them into her creations with a vibrant and innovative flair.

Born and raised on the picturesque island of Mer in the Torres Strait, Nornie's culinary journey began in the kitchens of Italian and Japanese restaurants in Melbourne and London, thanks to her adventurous spirit. However, it was her return to her roots that truly ignited her passion for indigenous cuisine. Today, Nornie calls Mabu Mabu, a renowned restaurant in Melbourne and beyond, her culinary sanctuary.

This captivating book, aptly named Mabu Mabu, which translates to "help yourself," encapsulates Nornie's unique approach to cooking. It is a celebration of simplicity, accessibility, and unparalleled deliciousness, all adorned with a kaleidoscope of colors. At the heart of Nornie's native pantry lies a comprehensive glossary of native ingredients, including seeds, succulents, nuts, plants, and herbs. These ingredients are skillfully incorporated into her recipes, ranging from the iconic Pumpkin and Wattleseed dampers that have made her famous to the exquisite Kangaroo Tail Bourguignon and the tantalizing Saltbush Butter, Quandong Relish, Pickled Karkalla, and Pulled Wild Boar.

But Nornie's culinary expertise extends beyond her recipes. She shares her deep knowledge of foraging, sourcing, and substitutions, empowering readers to embrace the abundance of native produce available in their local surroundings. She also delves into the story of her formative years, spent foraging, fishing, and cooking alongside her beloved father on the enchanting island of Mer.

Through Mabu Mabu, Nornie invites us to embark on a sensory adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and nourishes the soul. Her culinary creations are a testament to the fusion of traditional techniques and modern innovation, showcasing the incredible potential of native ingredients to create extraordinary dishes. With each page turned, we are transported to a world where flavors dance harmoniously, celebrating the rich heritage and diversity of Australian cuisine.

So, let us embrace the spirit of Mabu Mabu and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the beauty of native flavors. With Nornie as our guide, we can unlock the secrets of Australian herbs, spices, vegetables, and fruits, infusing our everyday cooking with a touch of magic and authenticity.

Weight: 856g
Dimension: 180 x 253 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781743797280