Bannocks Bread Recipe
Bannocks are a delightful, old-fashioned treat that has been cherished for generations. These small, fried cakes are simple to make and offer a comforting blend of flavors and textures. Traditionally enjoyed warm and paired with maple syrup, bannocks are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack. Let's walk through the process of making this classic dish, step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 cupful of thick sour milk: This ingredient adds a subtle tanginess to the bannocks, contributing to their unique flavor. The acidity of the sour milk also reacts with the baking soda, helping the bannocks rise and become light and fluffy.
- 2 cupfuls of flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the bannock dough, providing structure and a neutral flavor that balances the sweetness from the sugar and the richness from the egg.
- Milk (as needed): Milk may be required to achieve the correct consistency for the batter. The milk helps to thin the dough slightly, making it easier to drop into the boiling fat.
- 1/2 cupful of Indian meal (cornmeal): The inclusion of cornmeal gives the bannocks a slightly grainy texture and a touch of earthy sweetness. It also adds a lovely golden hue to the finished product.
- 1/2 cupful of sugar: Sugar is essential for adding sweetness to the bannocks, making them a delicious treat that pairs perfectly with syrup.
- 1 teaspoonful of soda (baking soda): Baking soda serves as a leavening agent, helping the bannocks puff up as they cook. When combined with the sour milk, it creates bubbles in the batter, resulting in a light and airy texture.
- 1 egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the bannocks.
- A pinch of salt: A small amount of salt is necessary to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Procedure:
Prepare the Batter: Begin by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the flour, Indian meal, sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to ensure that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour milk and egg until smooth. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously. The batter should be thick but smooth, with a consistency that allows it to be dropped from a spoon. If the batter appears too thick, add a small amount of milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Heat the Fat: In a deep pan or pot, heat a generous amount of fat (such as lard or vegetable oil) until it reaches the right temperature for frying. You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.
Fry the Bannocks: Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Each piece of batter should be about the size of a walnut. Fry the bannocks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side until they are golden brown and crisp, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain and Serve: Once the bannocks are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Serve the bannocks warm, accompanied by maple syrup, which complements their sweetness and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Approximate Calorie Count:
The calorie content of these bannocks can vary depending on factors like the type of fat used for frying and the amount of syrup added when serving. However, on average, each bannock is estimated to contain about 100-150 calories, with the overall dish providing approximately 800-1000 calories per serving when factoring in the maple syrup. This makes them a hearty treat that’s perfect for an indulgent morning or a special snack.