Today is June 16, and Aussies around the country are grabbing their toast, twisting the yellow lid, and celebrating one of our most iconic spreads worldwide… Vegemite. It’s salty, it’s savoury, and it divides households faster than a game of backyard cricket.
A True Aussie Icon
Vegemite isn’t just a spread, it’s a rite of passage. First made back in 1923, it was created as a local alternative to Marmite after WWI. Safe to say, we nailed it. Now, we spread it on toast, chuck it on cheese scrolls, and even sneak it into pasta sauces (don’t knock it till you try it).
Love It or Leave It?
Let’s be honest, Vegemite is not for the faint-hearted. That first taste can hit harder than a magpie in spring, but once you get the hang of it, there’s no going back. For those people who have yet to sample the Aussies spread, just keep in mind it may look like Nutella… but it’s a little different. All you need is a light scraping, that’s the true Aussie way.
How to Celebrate Like a True Blue Aussie
Here’s how you can honour the mighty ‘Mite:
- Toast it up – Classic white bread, butter, and a thin spread of Vegemite. Perfection.
- Vegemite snacks at work – Surprise your coworkers with Vegemite scrolls or biscuits. Watch their faces. It’s good fun.
- Share a yarn – Post your first Vegemite memory online. Bonus points if there’s a photo of you pulling a face.
Fun Facts to Impress Your Mates
- Over 22 million jars of Vegemite are sold every year. That’s more jars than there are people in Australia!
- The original recipe hasn’t changed in over 100 years.
- There’s enough B vitamins in Vegemite to give you energy all day.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Whether you’re a lifelong Vegemite lover or still recovering from your first taste, National Vegemite Day is all about celebrating what makes Aussie food culture so unique. So grab a slice of toast, raise your jar, and say it loud: “We’re happy little Vegemites, as bright as bright can be!”
