As most of you know last night was Bonfire Night and we had a bonfire feast of chilli, bannock and oven roasted cauliflower and onions. I have made bannock before for Robert Burns night and thought it would be perfect last night. Traditional Selkirk bannock has sultanas and mixed peel added however there are other variations like adding blueberries or raisins or cranberries or cinnamon. Bannock may be formed into one circular shape or into a loaf pan and baked in the oven. It also can be cooked in a cast iron skillet over a campfire or wrapped around a stick. This bannock recipe is very easy and quick therefore I opted for a more simple in house method using a frying pan and the stovetop range. It doesn't have to be Bonfire Night for you to enjoy bannock; it can be made for breakfast just serve with jam.
BANNOCK
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Makes 4. Serves 2 - 4.
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon British mixed spice
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup water
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, British mixed spice and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Add 1/2 cup water and stir until flour is moistened and a stiff dough forms. Add more water if necessary.
Lightly oil and preheat a large cast iron or nonstick frying pan/skillet over medium heat.
Turn dough onto lightly floured board or counter. Divide into 4 equal pieces. Flatten each piece to form a disc 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick.
Place first disc in hot skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side. Serve warm with butter.
Notes: I did add a bit more water, only adding a tablespoon at a time, to bring the dough to the desired consistency.