Caraway Oatcakes: A Scottish Delicacy

Caraway oatcakes are a traditional Scottish flatbread made with oatmeal, flour, and caraway seeds. They are typically round and thin, with a slightly crispy texture and a nutty flavor. Oatcakes are a versatile food that can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish, or as a base for other dishes.

Ingredients

* 1 cup oatmeal
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and caraway seeds.
3. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece of dough into a thin circle.
7. Place the oatcakes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Variations

* Instead of caraway seeds, you can use other spices, such as cumin, coriander, or fennel.
* You can add grated cheese or chopped nuts to the dough for extra flavor.
* If you don't have milk, you can use water or buttermilk instead.

Serving

Caraway oatcakes can be served warm or cold. They can be eaten plain, or with butter, cheese, or your favorite toppings. They are also delicious crumbled over soups and salads.

History

Caraway oatcakes have been a staple of the Scottish diet for centuries. They were originally made by grinding oats into a coarse flour and mixing it with water. The dough was then flattened into cakes and cooked over an open fire. Over time, the recipe for oatcakes has evolved, but they remain a popular food in Scotland today.

Nutritional Value

Caraway oatcakes are a good source of fiber, protein, and iron. They are also low in calories and fat. Eating oatcakes can help to lower cholesterol, improve digestion, and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Caraway oatcakes are a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are easy to make and can be customized to your taste. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or as a base for other dishes, caraway oatcakes are sure to become a staple in your diet.