As a culinary expert with a passion for exploring the diverse and rich flavors of the world, I am delighted to delve into the topic of Australia's national dish. Australia is a country with a vibrant and multicultural culinary scene, influenced by its indigenous heritage, British colonial past, and the influx of immigrants from various parts of the world. This has resulted in a wide array of dishes that could be considered as contenders for the title of "national dish."

The question of what constitutes the national dish of Australia is a subject of much debate and varies depending on who you ask. However, based on the information provided, it seems that roast lamb has emerged as a strong contender, with a significant number of votes in a poll, suggesting its popularity among Australians.

Roast Lamb is a dish that has been associated with Australia for many years. It is often served during festive occasions and gatherings, making it a staple in the Australian culinary landscape. The dish typically consists of a leg or rack of lamb, seasoned with herbs and spices, and roasted to perfection. The succulent meat, when cooked right, is tender and flavorful, and it is often accompanied by a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

Another popular dish that has been mentioned is the meat pie. This is a classic Australian snack that can be found at sports events, street fairs, and even as a quick lunch option. The meat pie is a pastry filled with a savory meat and gravy mixture, offering a comforting and satisfying meal on the go.

The barbecued sausage in bread, also known as a sausage sizzle, is a quintessential Australian outdoor cooking tradition. Often found at local community events and fundraisers, this dish is a simple yet beloved option that brings people together over a shared love for barbecued meats.

While dishes like spaghetti bolognese and salt and pepper squid may not have rated as highly in the poll, they still represent the diverse culinary influences in Australia. The spaghetti bolognese, with its Italian roots, and the salt and pepper squid, a dish that reflects the Asian influence on Australian cuisine, are both popular choices in the country's restaurants and homes.

When it comes to sweet dishes, the pavlova and lamingtons were mentioned as struggling for support. The pavlova, a meringue-based dessert with a crisp exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like interior, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, is a favorite for many Australians, especially during the summer months. The lamington, a square of sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut, is a sweet treat that is often enjoyed with a cup of tea.

In conclusion, while the roast lamb has a strong claim to being the national dish of Australia, it is important to recognize the diversity of the country's culinary scene. The national dish is not just about a single recipe but rather a reflection of the rich tapestry of flavors and cultural influences that make up the Australian culinary identity.

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Roast lamb, with 6177 votes, barely scraped home from the meat pie (5741) and the barbecued sausage in bread (5317). More recent culinary arrivals, spaghetti bolognese and salt and pepper squid, hardly rated, and sweet dishes pavlova and lamingtons, also struggled for support.read more >>