Oatcakes themselves are a very healthy and nutritious dish. They are a great source of fiber and healthy whole grains, and they are extremely low in calories and fat. The Scottish versions of oatcakes are more like a cross between a cracker (or shortbread), and are much smaller and crisper than their English counterparts. The “Staffordshire” style oatcakes would be more akin to American pancakes, johnnycakes, crepes, or blintzes.
Low Calorie “Staffordshire” Oatcakes
Equipment
- 1 medium bowl
- 1 nonstick griddle or heavy skillet
Ingredients
- ½ cup uncooked oats (quick cooking oats will work, but not “instant”)
- 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1¼ cups skim milk
- ½ cup plain fat-free yogurt
Instructions
- Stir oats in heavy skillet over medium heat 3 minutes or until slightly browned. Remove the oats from the heat and place them in a medium bowl; allow the oats to cool for 5 minutes.
- Once the oats have cooled, stir in the flour, baking powder and sugar. Combine the milk and yogurt in a small bowl and stir into the flour mixture just until all ingredients are moistened (batter will be lumpy.)
- Coat a nonstick griddle or heavy skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat until hot. Drop the batter by scant 1/4 cupfuls onto the griddle and quickly spread the batter to form round cakes (about 4-5 inches around).
- Cook for 2 minutes or until the top is covered with bubbles. Flip the oatcakes over and cook for 2 minutes longer or until lightly browned.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Making Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes using an Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oats, 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour the oatcake batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small circles about 4-5 inches in diameter. Leave some space between each oatcake.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Carefully remove the oatcakes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the oatcakes warm with your favorite toppings and accompaniments, such as grated cheese, sliced avocado, or a side of bacon.
Note: This alternative method using the oven offers a convenient way to prepare Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes without the need for a griddle or stovetop cooking. The oven provides even heat distribution, resulting in golden-brown oatcakes with a tender texture.
Cooking Tips
Mastering the art of preparing Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes requires a combination of technique and understanding. In this section, you’ll find valuable cooking tips and tricks to ensure your oatcakes turn out flawlessly every time. From achieving the perfect consistency to avoiding common pitfalls, let’s dive into the secrets behind creating these delectable treats.
- The Magic of Resting the Batter: To achieve light and fluffy oatcakes, allow your batter to rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This resting time allows the oats to absorb the liquids fully, resulting in a smoother texture and better overall structure.
- The Ideal Cooking Temperature: Maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving that golden-brown perfection. Heat your griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Test the temperature by sprinkling a few droplets of water on the surface – they should dance and sizzle. If the water evaporates instantly, the heat is too high. Adjust accordingly to ensure even cooking.
- Portioning for Consistency: For uniformity in size and cooking time, use a measuring cup or ladle to portion out the oatcake batter onto the hot surface. This will help maintain a consistent thickness and ensure even cooking throughout.
- Flip with Care: When it’s time to flip the oatcakes, wait until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges start to set. Gently slide a spatula underneath and flip it over in one smooth motion. Avoid flipping multiple times, as this can result in dense oatcakes.
- Keep Warm and Serve Fresh: To serve Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes at their best, keep them warm until you’re ready to enjoy them. Place cooked oatcakes on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F/95°C) while you cook the remaining batch. This ensures they stay tender and warm until they reach your plate.
Serving Suggestions
Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways and with different accompaniments. In this section, we’ll explore serving suggestions that complement the flavors and add an extra touch of deliciousness to your oatcakes.
- For a Hearty Breakfast: Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes shine as the centerpiece of a hearty breakfast. Serve them alongside a side of crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a sunny-side-up egg. The combination of savory and earthy flavors will awaken your taste buds and keep you energized throughout the day.
- Brunch Delight: Impress your brunch guests by offering a build-your-own oatcake station. Provide an array of toppings such as grated cheese, sliced avocado, smoked salmon, and fresh herbs. Let everyone customize their oatcakes to their liking, creating a memorable and interactive dining experience.
- Light Lunch: For a light and satisfying lunch, roll up your oatcakes with a filling of choice. Spread a layer of cream cheese or hummus on the oatcake, then add a selection of thinly sliced vegetables, such as cucumber, bell peppers, and baby spinach. Roll it tightly and secure with toothpicks for an on-the-go meal.
- Afternoon Snack: When hunger strikes between meals, reach for a savory oatcake topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chives. This simple yet delightful snack will keep you satiated and provide a boost of energy without weighing you down.
- Dessert Twist: Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes can even be transformed into a sweet treat. Serve them warm, drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup, and topped with a handful of fresh berries. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings.
FAQs
In this section, we address some frequently asked questions about Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes. Whether it’s about storage, variations, or troubleshooting, we’ve got you covered.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the oatcake batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before cooking. This way, you can enjoy fresh oatcakes in the morning without the hassle of preparing the batter from scratch.
Can I make gluten-free oatcakes?
Yes, you can make gluten-free oatcakes by using certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all the ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover oatcakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or toaster until heated through.
Can I freeze the oatcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the oatcakes for longer storage. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating eachoatcake with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
My oatcakes turned out dense. What did I do wrong?
Dense oatcakes can result from overmixing the batter or not allowing it to rest. Be sure to mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the liquids fully. Also, avoid flipping the oatcakes multiple times while cooking, as this can lead to denser texture. Follow these tips, and you’ll achieve light and fluffy oatcakes.
Uncover the art of preparing Low Calorie Staffordshire Oatcakes with expert tips and tricks. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, achieve the ideal texture, and serve these versatile treats in various ways. Join our community by sharing the recipe and subscribing to stay updated on the latest culinary adventures.