Authentic Irish Oatcakes

Directions

1. 1
   Grinding down regular rolled oats slightly in a blender or grinder will be a help.
2. 2
   *Or beef dripping.
3. 3
   ***Approximately.
4. 4
   Mix the oatmeal, salt and soda in a bowl.
5. 5
   Make a well in the center.
6. 6
   Pour in the melted fat and add enough water to make a stiff dough which can be squeezed into a ball.
7. 7
   Sprinkle the board and your hands with oatmeal and knead the mixture until there are no cracks in it.
8. 8
   Flatten the ball and roll it out into a round just under 1/4 inch thick.
9. 9
   Invert a plate on top and trim off the ragged edges -- these can be added to the next batch of dough to be rolled.
10. 10
    Cut the round into quarters, lift them onto a warmed and greased bakestone and cook over moderate heat for 20 minutes or until the triangles curl at the corners.
11. 11
    Turn and cook the other side for 5 minutes, or finish under a moderate grill.
12. 12
    Store the oatcakes in an airtight tin, and toast under a moderate grill, or in the oven, before serving.