Classic Canadian Bannock Recipe
Prepare yourself for a taste of Canadian heritage with this simple yet delicious recipe for bannock, a type of unleavened bread that’s been a cornerstone in Indigenous Canadian cuisine for ages. Perfect for cooking over a campfire or in your home kitchen, bannock is versatile, filling, and can be ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
- Optional: 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Begin by mixing the dry ingredients together in a large bowl—combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add water to the dry mixture, stirring continuously. If desired, incorporate the melted butter or vegetable oil at this stage. Add enough water to form a sticky dough. The consistency should be pliable but not too wet.
- Flour your hands and turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for a few minutes until the dough is smooth.
- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape into patties or leave as one large piece, depending on your preference.
- If cooking outdoors, place the dough directly onto hot coals, a greased grill grate, or use a cast iron skillet. If cooking indoors, heat a greased frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the bannock for approximately 10-12 minutes on each side, or until it becomes golden brown and the center is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the bannock from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Bannock can be enjoyed as is, slathered with butter, jam, or honey. It also pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like stews and soups. Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding herbs, cheese, or even dried fruits for a sweet version.
Variations:
- Sweet Bannock: Add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dates to the dry ingredients.
- Cheesy Garlic Bannock: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder with the dry ingredients.
Enjoy your homemade bannock!
This bannock recipe is a perfect introduction to Canadian Indigenous cuisine and a testament to the simple pleasures of bread making. Share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to experiment with your own favorite flavors. Bon appétit!