Authentic Irish Oatcakes

1. 1

   Grinding down regular rolled oats slightly in a blender or grinder will be a help.

2. 2

   *Or beef dripping.

3. 3

   ***Approximately.

4. 4

   Mix the oatmeal, salt and soda in a bowl.

5. 5

   Make a well in the center.

6. 6

   Pour in the melted fat and add enough water to make a stiff dough which can be squeezed into a ball.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the board and your hands with oatmeal and knead the mixture until there are no cracks in it.

8. 8

   Flatten the ball and roll it out into a round just under 1/4 inch thick.

9. 9

   Invert a plate on top and trim off the ragged edges -- these can be added to the next batch of dough to be rolled.

10. 10

    Cut the round into quarters, lift them onto a warmed and greased bakestone and cook over moderate heat for 20 minutes or until the triangles curl at the corners.

11. 11

    Turn and cook the other side for 5 minutes, or finish under a moderate grill.

12. 12

    Store the oatcakes in an airtight tin, and toast under a moderate grill, or in the oven, before serving.

No additional tips available.