Bannock (the bread of Canadian Bastinas)
To prepare a delicious rustic bread, start by combining the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix them well in a large bowl to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This is the base of your dough, which will give texture and flavor to the bread. Then, slowly add the milk, being careful to incorporate it gradually. Use a fork to mix the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous dough. If you notice that the dough is too crumbly and does not hold together well, do not hesitate to add a tablespoon of milk at a time, continuing to mix. It is important not to add too much milk at once, so as not to alter the desired texture.
After about three minutes of kneading, the dough should be elastic and easy to handle. If you decide to bake the bread in the oven, shape the dough into a disc about 1.5 - 2 cm thick. Place it in a well-greased baking tray to prevent sticking. Then, use the fork to prick the entire surface of the dough, creating small holes that will help with even baking. Preheat the oven to 180°C (or 350°F) and bake the bread for 20-30 minutes, until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside.
To add a special touch, serve the bread with a delicious soup, such as 'Three Sisters Soup', which combines fresh and healthy vegetables. Alternatively, you can toast slices of bread and cover them with melted cheese, creating a delicious and comforting snack.
If you prefer a more rustic preparation, you can opt for baking the bread on coals. Roll out the dough and cut it into two strips. Wrap each strip around a thicker, longer stick, about one meter long. Place them on the grill above the hot coals and cook them slowly, being careful to turn them frequently to avoid burning. This cooking method will give the bread a smoky flavor and an unmistakable texture.
It is worth mentioning that I used coconut milk, thus turning the recipe into a vegan one. However, in its original version, cow's milk, buffalo milk, or other types of milk can be used. This versatility makes the recipe accessible for different diets while maintaining its authenticity and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 2 cups of flour (290 g) 1 teaspoon of sugar a pinch of salt 1 tablespoon of baking powder* 500 ml of milk**
