An oatcake is a type of pancake made from oatmeal, flour and yeast, and cooked on a griddle.

North Staffordshire oatcake

Oatcakes are a local delicacy in the North Staffordshire (Stoke-on-Trent) area of England, and so may be known to non-locals as a North Staffordshire oatcake or Potteries oatcake. When pre-cooked, they are a form of fast food, and catering outlets in the area usually offer oatcakes with fillings such as cheese, bacon, sausage and egg. They can be re-heated by frying in butter, or by grilling. In addition, pikelets are often served alongside oatcakes in a similar fashion.

Recipe

You will need

• 8oz fine oatmeal
• 8oz wholewheat or plain flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2oz fresh yeast
• 1 1/2 pints warm milk and water, mixed half and half
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Method

1. Add the salt to the flour and oatmeal.

2. Dissolve the yeast with a little warm liquid and add the sugar. Allow the mixture to become frothy.

3. Mix the dry ingredients with the yeast liquid to make a batter.

4. Cover the batter with a clean cloth and leave it in a warm place for an hour.

5. Bake the oatcake on a well-greased griddle. Put enough batter onto the griddle to produce an oatcake about 8-9 inches in diameter. The surface will be covered in holes as it cooks. Turn the oatcake after 2 - 3 minutes when the upper side appears dry and the underneath is golden brown, and cook for another 2 - 3 minutes.

Scottish oatcakes

Scottish oatcakes can take a variety of shapes, but are typically round or quadrant-shaped. Many commercial brands are available. The method of making has changed over the last 60 years.