Wattle, also known as wattle seed, is a spice derived from the seeds of certain Acacia plants, which are native to Australia. Indigenous Australians have used wattle seed as a staple food source for thousands of years, and it has recently gained popularity in modern Australian and fusion cuisine. The seeds are typically roasted and ground to produce a flavourful, versatile spice with a rich, nutty aroma.

Wattleseed has a unique flavour profile often described as earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet, with notes reminiscent of coffee, chocolate, and hazelnut. When roasted, its aroma intensifies, providing a warm, toasty element to both savoury and sweet dishes. Wattleseed is gluten-free and nutritious, containing protein, fibre, and essential minerals, which has made it particularly popular in health-conscious and plant-based cooking.

In the kitchen, wattleseed is used in various ways. It can be incorporated into baked goods such as breads, muffins, and cakes, where it adds a subtle nuttiness and enhances texture. Its earthy sweetness also complements desserts like ice cream, custards, and panna cotta, where the wattleseed imparts a gentle, coffee-like flavour. In savoury dishes, wattleseed can be added to sauces, stews, and marinades, or used as a crust for meats, giving a warm and complex flavour that pairs well with spices like black pepper, coriander, and cumin.

Wattleseed is also used in beverages, adding depth to hot drinks like coffee or hot chocolate, or enhancing smoothies and shakes with its mildly sweet taste. Given its growing popularity, wattleseed is now available in a variety of forms, including whole seeds, roasted powder, and even in pre-made mixes.

Besides its culinary appeal, wattleseed is also celebrated as a symbol of sustainable, indigenous Australian food practices. Its cultivation is eco-friendly, as Acacia plants are resilient and thrive in Australia’s challenging climates, requiring minimal water and support. As awareness of native Australian ingredients spreads, wattleseed is gaining recognition as a versatile, nutritious, and culturally significant spice that brings a distinctive touch to both traditional and contemporary dishes.