firecakes

Firecakes, also known as bannocks or griddle cakes, are a simple type of unleavened bread traditionally cooked over a fire or on a griddle. Their origins are widespread, appearing in various forms across different cultures and historical periods. The basic ingredients typically include flour, water or milk, and a binder like fat or egg.

The cooking method involves heating the dough on a flat surface, often a hot stone or a cast-iron griddle, until it puffs up and becomes golden brown. This process can also be done directly in the embers of a fire, hence the name "firecakes." The texture can range from dense and chewy to light and crumbly, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.

Firecakes served a practical purpose as a portable and easily prepared food source for travelers, soldiers, and people in regions where ovens were not readily available. They could be seasoned with herbs or spices, or eaten plain. Variations exist globally, with similar flatbreads cooked over heat found in Scottish, Irish, and various indigenous American cuisines. Their simplicity and adaptability have ensured their continued presence in traditional cooking.