Week 45 – Make Some Bannock from Robertson, David A. 52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk with Indigenous Peoples on the Path to Healing
Over the past 45 weeks, we’ve explored many innovations and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. This week, however, we learn that bannock isn’t one of them!
Bannock originated in Scotland and was introduced to Indigenous Peoples by fur traders sometime during the 18th and 19th centuries. Although it has since become an important part of Indigenous cuisine, its history is also a reminder of the significant changes brought about by colonization.
When Status Indians were forced onto reserves, access to suitable farmland was limited, and starvation became a very real threat. Bannock, made with simple ingredients that were often more readily available, became an important source of sustenance.
Today, bannock holds a special place in many Indigenous communities and cultures. If you attend a powwow (one of the earlier 52 Acts in Reconciliation), you’ll likely come across the famous Indian Taco, traditionally served on a piece of Bannock.
But why not take this week's act a step further and try making bannock yourself, perhaps with family or friends? While the ingredients are simple, getting the texture and technique just right can be a bit of an art form.
Robertson shares his family's bannock recipe:
6 cups flour
8 tsp baking powder
Salt to taste
5 tbsp butter
2¼ cups water
A little magic touch!
You can also find plenty of other bannock recipes online.
Happy baking! It might take a few attempts to get it just right, but remember, that's what butter and jam are for!
Jennifer Aldous
Want to read last weeks post, you can do so here.