Cree Campfire Bannock Bread
Experience the rich flavors of the Canadian North with this traditional Cree recipe for Bannock Bread. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy campfire nights, this quick bread pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Made with simple ingredients that symbolize the resourcefulness of Indigenous cooking, this Bannock is sure to become a favorite in your camping repertoire. Serve it warm, topped with butter and jam, or use it as a base for hearty stews. Embrace the spirit of the wild and enjoy this lovely bread wherever your adventures take you.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
6 cups (sifted)
lard
1 cup (softened)
baking powder
3 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 tablespoon (none)
currants or raisins (sultanas)
2 cups (washed and drained)
water
3 1/2 cups (room temperature)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour and softened lard. Use your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2
Add the baking powder, salt, and washed currants (or raisins) to the bowl. Stir to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and fruit.
3
Gradually pour in the room temperature water while mixing with your hands until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not be sticky; add a little more flour if necessary.
4
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if using that method.
5
For cooking over a campfire, divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a long, thick strip and tightly wrap it around the end of a four-foot stick. Secure the stick over the fire, turning it frequently to ensure even cooking. Cook until the dough is golden brown and cooked through, which may take around 10-15 minutes.
6
For baking in the oven, spread the dough evenly into a greased 16-inch square cake pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7
Once done, remove from the heat or oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cree Campfire Bannock Bread?
Cree Campfire Bannock Bread is a traditional Indigenous quick bread from the Canadian North, known for its simple ingredients and versatility in outdoor cooking.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this recipe?
The main ingredients include six cups of sifted flour, one cup of softened lard, three tablespoons of baking powder, one tablespoon of salt, two cups of currants or raisins, and three and a half cups of water.
How long does it take to cook bannock over a campfire?
When wrapped around a stick and held over a campfire, the dough typically takes 10 to 15 minutes to cook until golden brown.
What temperature should I bake the bread at in an oven?
If using an oven, preheat it to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
Can I substitute lard with another fat?
While lard is traditional, you can use softened butter or vegetable shortening as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
What is the ideal consistency of the bannock dough?
The dough should be soft and pliable. It should not be sticky; if it is, you can add a small amount of additional flour.
Are the currants or raisins mandatory?
No, the fruit is optional. You can omit them for a savory version or substitute them with other dried berries.
How do I prepare the dough for campfire cooking?
Divide the dough into four equal portions, shape each into a long thick strip, and wrap it tightly around the end of a long stick.
How long should I bake the bannock in a pan?
In a greased 16-inch square pan, the bread should bake for approximately 20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
What kind of stick should I use for campfire bannock?
A clean, sturdy, non-toxic wood stick about four feet long is recommended to keep you at a safe distance from the flames.
How do I know if the oven-baked bannock is done?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Is the flour sifted before or after measuring?
The recipe specifies six cups of sifted flour, suggesting you should sift the flour before mixing it with the lard.
What should I serve with Cree Bannock Bread?
It is delicious served warm with butter and jam, or as a side for hearty stews and soups.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by replacing the lard with a plant-based shortening or vegan butter.
Why do I mix the flour and lard by hand?
Mixing by hand allows you to feel the texture, ensuring the lard is incorporated until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Should the water be hot or cold?
The recipe calls for room temperature water to ensure the dough forms properly without melting the lard too quickly.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can use whole wheat flour, but it will result in a denser, heavier bread. You might want to use a mix of white and whole wheat.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields a large batch, enough for four large campfire sticks or a full 16-inch square cake pan, serving roughly 8 to 12 people.
Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, bannock is often cooked in a greased cast iron skillet over a fire or on a stove as an alternative to the stick or oven methods.
How do I prevent the dough from falling off the stick?
Ensure the dough is wrapped tightly and the stick is not too smooth; turning the stick frequently while cooking also helps set the dough.
Is this bread sweet or savory?
With the addition of currants or raisins, it has a subtle sweetness, but the base dough is neutral and works well with savory dishes.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
The dough is best cooked immediately due to the baking powder, but you can mix the dry ingredients and lard ahead of time.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This is a traditional recipe from the Cree people, reflecting the resourcefulness of Indigenous Canadian cooking.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, the 16-inch square cake pan should be greased to prevent the bread from sticking.
Can I use milk instead of water?
Yes, using milk instead of water will result in a richer flavor and a softer crumb.
How should I store leftover bannock?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage.
What is the best way to reheat bannock?
Reheat it in a low oven or toaster to maintain its texture; microwaving may make it slightly chewy.
Can I add other spices to the dough?
Absolutely. Cinnamon or nutmeg pair well with the raisins, while herbs like rosemary can be added for a savory twist.
Does the dough need time to rise?
No, this is a quick bread using baking powder for leavening, so no rising time is required before cooking.
What size should the currants or raisins be?
Standard dried currants or raisins work well; ensure they are washed and drained before adding to the dry mix.