Bannock is a type of flatbread that has deep roots in Indigenous and settler cultures across North America, particularly in Canada and the northern United States. Known for its simplicity and versatility, this rustic bread has been enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally, bannock recipe is made with basic ingredients like flour, baking powder, salt, and water, then fried, baked, or cooked over an open flame, creating a warm, hearty bread that can be served with various toppings or eaten on its own.
The beauty of bannock lies in its adaptability. While the basic dough can be made with just a few pantry staples, variations of bannock often include additional ingredients like sugar, herbs, or even dried fruit to enhance the flavor. It can be made as a sweet or savory bread depending on the occasion, and the cooking method can be adjusted based on the tools available—whether it’s frying in a pan for a crispy crust or baking it in the oven for a softer, more traditional texture.
Bannock is perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or any dish that benefits from a hearty bread to scoop or soak up flavorful sauces. In its simplest form, it makes for a great accompaniment to breakfast, served with jam, honey, or butter. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed with meats, cheeses, or vegetables, making it a great option for picnics or family meals. Its versatility makes it an ideal bread for camping trips or gatherings where food needs to be easy to prepare and satisfy a crowd.
For a more authentic experience, bannock is often enjoyed as part of a meal that reflects Indigenous traditions, with fish, game, or roasted vegetables. However, it’s equally popular in contemporary kitchens where it’s made with modern ingredients and enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether made sweet or savory, baked or fried, bannock remains a beloved and enduring comfort food. And you must try this Bannock recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water or more as needed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add water while stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Divide the dough into smaller pieces and flatten them with your hands or a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry each piece of dough in the hot oil until golden brown, turning once, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain cooked bannock on paper towels and serve warm.
Nutrition
This recipe is so easy! I made bannock for the first time and my kids loved it. Will make again!
I tried making this but my dough came out way too sticky. Ended up adding a lot of extra flour, not sure what went wrong.
Maybe you added too much water at first? It happens to the best of us. Just add the water slowly next time! 🙌
I followed the recipe but mine turned out too greasy. What did I do wrong?
Sounds like you might have used too much oil or didn’t drain them well after frying. It’s tricky to get that balance right!
Delicious! I used it as a side with my soup and wow, it was perfect. Definitely making again.
I’m glad you enjoyed it! Bannock is such a versatile dish. How did you make your soup?
Sounds good, but I wonder if it would be better baked instead of fried? Just a thought.
Followed the instructions, but it was a disaster. My bannock looked like burnt pancakes. Ugh!
Total failure! I couldn’t get the dough right, it was sticky and I just ended up with a mess. Ugh!
I totally understand your frustration! Dough can be tricky sometimes. Maybe try adding a bit more flour next time? Hope it works out better for you!
This was super easy and tasted amazing! My kids loved it!
I’m glad your kids enjoyed it! Bannock is such a fun recipe to make together. What did you serve it with?
It seems too simple. Are you sure it tastes great? I don’t think my kids would like it because they are picky eaters.
Bannock is a traditional dish, and I appreciate the simplicity of this recipe. Thank you for sharing!
This bannock recipe is a hit with my family! So easy to make and taste great!
Is there a way to make this in the oven? I don’t have a frying pan. Would that work?
You can totally bake it! Just shape it like the instructions say, put it on a baking sheet, and bake at about 400°F until it’s golden. Should be good!
Tastes like my grandma’s but better! Great with jam.
Yum! So fluffy and tasty! My grandma used to make this all the time!
Why do you need baking powder? It doesn’t seem right. Isn’t it supposed to be flat bread?
Baking powder is actually super important for giving it a nice texture! Without it, the bread would be really dense. Trust the recipe!
So easy! My kids helped and we had a blast. Tastes great with honey! 🍯
Loved this recipe! I added some herbs for extra flavor. It’s a keeper!
This is probably the best thing I’ve made in ages! So simple and filling.
Bannock? Never heard of it before. Thought it was some kind of fancy bread. Turned out pretty good though!
I tried this but mine came out way too dry. Maybe I added too much flour? Not sure what went wrong.
Bannock!!! 😊
Why do you need all that oil? Can’t you bake it instead?
This recipe is amazing! I made it for a family gathering and everyone loved it! Will definitely make again.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead? Don’t have normal flour.
Why do you need oil? Can’t you just bake it? Frying seems unhealthy..
Is it supposed to be so soft? Mine was more like a rock. 😂
Yum! I’m so good at cooking this now! Can’t stop making it. It’s actually my new favorite!
Bannock? I thought this was supposed to be bread. This is more like fried dough. Not impressed.