Stottie cake

Stottie Cake

A traditional stottie cake

A stottie cake is a type of bread that originates from the North East of England. It is a round, flat loaf traditionally baked on the bottom of the oven, which gives it a distinctive texture and appearance. The stottie cake is known for its dense and chewy consistency, making it ideal for hearty sandwiches.

Characteristics

Stottie cakes are typically about 30 cm in diameter and 4 cm thick. They have a soft, white interior and a slightly crisp crust. The dough is made from basic ingredients such as flour, water, salt, and yeast. The simplicity of the recipe allows the bread to be versatile, often used to make substantial sandwiches filled with ingredients like bacon, egg, or sausage.

Preparation

The preparation of a stottie cake involves mixing the ingredients to form a dough, which is then kneaded and left to rise. After the initial rise, the dough is shaped into a flat, round loaf and allowed to rise again. The stottie is then baked at a high temperature, traditionally on the floor of the oven, which contributes to its unique texture.

Cultural Significance

In the North East of England, the stottie cake is more than just a type of bread; it is a cultural icon. It is often associated with the working-class communities of the region, where it has been a staple food for generations. The stottie is celebrated for its ability to hold substantial fillings, making it a popular choice for packed lunches and picnics.

Variations

While the traditional stottie cake is plain, variations exist that incorporate different ingredients into the dough. Some bakers add herbs or cheese to the dough for added flavor. Additionally, stotties can be found in different sizes, from small individual portions to large family-sized loaves.

Related Pages

• Bread
• North East England
• Sandwich