Stottie cake, a beloved traditional bread from Northeast England, is a hearty, chewy flatbread that’s perfect for sandwiches or as a side to soups and stews. But what if you could make this iconic dish effortlessly using a bread machine? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about creating the perfect stottie cake recipe bread machine style. From its rich history to step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and creative ways to enjoy it, this guide has it all. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe both approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into the world of stottie cake and discover how your bread machine can make the process a breeze!
Introduction to Stottie Cake and Bread Machines
What is a Stottie Cake?
A stottie cake, also spelled stotty, is a large, round, flatbread that originated in the Northeast of England, particularly around Newcastle. Known for its dense, chewy texture, it’s traditionally baked slowly to achieve its unique consistency. The name “stottie” is believed to come from the Geordie word “stot,” meaning to bounce, referring to how the dough was traditionally thrown or “stotted” onto the oven floor.
The History and Cultural Significance of Stottie Cake
Stottie cake has been a staple in Northeast England for generations, often enjoyed as a filling meal for workers. Its hearty texture made it ideal for holding robust fillings like ham and pease pudding. Over time, it has become a symbol of regional pride, with many families passing down their own versions of the recipe.
Why Use a Bread Machine for Stottie Cake?
Using a bread machine to make stottie cake simplifies the process, especially for those who are new to baking or short on time. The machine handles the kneading and rising, ensuring the dough has the perfect consistency. Plus, it eliminates the guesswork, making it easier to achieve that signature chewy texture. Whether you’re a busy parent or a baking enthusiast, the bread machine method is a game-changer for this traditional recipe.
Essential Ingredients for a Stottie Cake Recipe in a Bread Machine
Key Ingredients for Authentic Stottie Cake
To make a delicious stottie cake recipe bread machine style, you’ll need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. First and foremost, strong white bread flour is the backbone of this recipe, providing the structure and chewiness that stottie cake is known for. Fresh yeast or active dry yeast is crucial for achieving the right rise, while a pinch of sugar helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness. Don’t forget salt—it enhances the flavor and balances the dough. Finally, water and a touch of milk create the perfect hydration for a soft, pliable dough.
Substitutions and Variations for Dietary Needs
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, there are plenty of options. For a whole-grain version, you can substitute half of the white flour with whole wheat flour. Those avoiding dairy can use plant-based milk, and gluten-free flour blends can work for a gluten-free stottie cake. However, keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the texture.
Importance of Fresh Yeast and Flour Quality
Using fresh yeast can make a world of difference in your stottie cake recipe bread machine creation. It ensures a robust rise and a more flavorful dough. Similarly, high-quality flour is key to achieving the right texture. Opt for bread flour with a higher protein content, as it develops the gluten needed for that signature chewiness.
Step-by-Step Stottie Cake Recipe for Bread Machine
Preparing Your Bread Machine for Stottie Cake
Before you start, make sure your bread machine is clean and ready to go. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct order of adding ingredients—usually, liquids go in first, followed by dry ingredients, with yeast added last. This ensures the yeast doesn’t activate prematurely.
Step 1: Adding Ingredients to the Bread Machine
Begin by pouring 150 ml of warm water and 100 ml of milk into the bread pan. Next, add 450 grams of strong white bread flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Finally, add 7 grams of fresh yeast or 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Make sure the yeast doesn’t touch the liquid directly to avoid activating it too soon.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Bread Machine Setting
Set your bread machine to the dough setting. This cycle typically takes about 90 minutes and includes kneading and rising. The dough setting is ideal for stottie cake because it allows you to shape and bake the bread separately, giving you control over the final texture.
Step 3: Shaping and Baking the Stottie Cake
Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat disc about 2 cm thick. Place the discs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rest for 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the stottie cakes for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Stottie Cake Every Time
Achieving the Perfect Dough Consistency
When making a stottie cake recipe bread machine style, the dough’s consistency is key. After the dough cycle finishes, the dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water and knead it briefly. On the other hand, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little flour and knead until it reaches the right texture.
How to Avoid Common Bread Machine Mistakes
One common mistake is overloading the bread pan. Always follow your machine’s capacity guidelines to ensure proper kneading and rising. Additionally, avoid using cold liquids, as they can hinder yeast activation. Instead, use lukewarm water or milk to help the dough rise evenly. Lastly, don’t skip the resting period after shaping the dough—it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a better texture.
Storing and Serving Stottie Cake
Once baked, let your stottie cake cool completely on a wire rack. To store it, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature. For longer storage, slice it and freeze it in a sealed bag. When ready to serve, simply toast or warm it in the oven.
Traditional and Modern Ways to Enjoy Stottie Cake
Classic Fillings: Ham and Pease Pudding
Traditionally, stottie cake is served with ham and pease pudding, a hearty combination that highlights its chewy texture. Pease pudding, made from split peas, is creamy and flavorful, pairing perfectly with thinly sliced ham. This classic filling is a nod to the dish’s working-class roots and remains a favorite in Northeast England.
Creative Twists: Modern Stottie Cake Recipes
While the traditional version is delicious, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Try filling your stottie cake with roasted vegetables and hummus for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, use it as a base for a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese. For a sweet twist, spread it with butter and jam or drizzle it with honey.
Pairing Stottie Cake with Soups and Stews
Stottie cake’s dense texture makes it an excellent accompaniment to soups and stews. Tear off chunks and dip them into a warm bowl of lentil soup or beef stew. Its ability to soak up flavors without falling apart makes it a versatile addition to any meal.
FAQs About Stottie Cake and Bread Machines
Why is Stottie Cake So Called?
The name stottie cake comes from the Geordie word “stot,” which means to bounce. Historically, the dough was thrown or “stotted” onto the oven floor, giving it its distinctive shape and texture. This method also helped create the bread’s dense, chewy consistency, which has made it a favorite for generations.
What is the Cake Setting on a Bread Machine?
The cake setting on a bread machine is designed for recipes that use baking powder or baking soda instead of yeast. However, for a stottie cake recipe bread machine style, you’ll want to use the dough setting. This setting handles the kneading and rising, allowing you to shape and bake the bread separately for the best results.
Can I Make Stottie Cake Without a Bread Machine?
Absolutely! While a bread machine simplifies the process, you can make stottie cake by hand. Simply mix and knead the dough until smooth, let it rise in a warm place, and then shape and bake it as usual. However, using a bread machine saves time and effort, especially if you’re new to baking.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Why Stottie Cake is a Must-Try Recipe
Stottie cake is more than just bread—it’s a piece of culinary history. Its unique texture and versatility make it a standout dish, whether you enjoy it traditionally or with modern twists. By using a bread machine, you can easily recreate this classic recipe at home, even if you’re short on time or baking experience.
Encouragement to Experiment with Your Bread Machine
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your stottie cake recipe bread machine creations. Try different fillings, experiment with flours, or even add herbs and spices to the dough. The beauty of baking lies in its flexibility, and your bread machine is the perfect tool to help you explore new possibilities.
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your bread machine, gather your ingredients, and start baking your very own stottie cake today. Whether you stick to tradition or put your own spin on it, this hearty bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.