Flame-Grilled Irish Oatmeal Bannocks

Introduction

Experience the rich tradition of Irish oatcakes with this flame-grilled variation. Made with buttery oats and grilled until crispy and warm, these bannocks bring out a nutty, toasted flavor that only an Arteflame grill can provide. Grilled to perfection, they develop a golden crust while remaining tender inside. Serve these authentic Irish oatcakes with butter, honey, or cheese for a delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups steel-cut Irish oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup warm buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly hot.

Step 2: Prepare the oatmeal bannock dough

1. In a bowl, combine the steel-cut Irish oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Stir in the melted butter and warm buttermilk until a dough forms.
3. If desired, mix in the honey for a touch of sweetness.
4. Knead the dough lightly until smooth.

Step 3: Shape the bannocks

1. Dust a clean surface with flour.
2. Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Cut into rounds or traditional triangle shapes.

Step 4: Grill the bannocks

1. Place the bannocks on the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill, closer to the center for a hotter cooking surface.
2. Let them grill for 5-7 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip and grill the other side for another 5-7 minutes.
4. Move to the outer area of the cooktop if they need more gentle heat.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove the bannocks from the grill once crisp and fully cooked.
2. Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside cheese and meats.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use high-quality Irish butter.
• Use the outer cooler zone of the Arteflame grill to keep bannocks warm while preparing other dishes.
• If the dough is too sticky, add more flour gradually.
• Try brushing some melted butter on top before flipping for extra crispiness.

Variations

• Sweet Cinnamon Bannocks: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons brown sugar to the dough.
• Savory Cheese Bannocks: Include 1/2 cup grated Irish cheddar in the dough.
• Herb-Infused Bannocks: Add 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
• Nutty Bannocks: Mix in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts for an added crunch.
• Seedy Bannocks: Sprinkle chia, flax, or sesame seeds into the dough for a nutritional boost.

Conclusion

Flame-grilled Irish oatmeal bannocks are the perfect way to enjoy a crispy and warm oatcake with deep, rich flavors. Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, these oatcakes come to life on the Arteflame grill, giving them a perfectly even crust and satisfying texture. Enjoy them fresh off the grill with your favorite toppings.

Best Pairings

• Irish butter and honey
• Smoked salmon and cream cheese
• Sharp cheddar and apple slices
• Grilled meats and stews
• Irish tea or coffee