In the late 50's my parents moved to Canada like many. They settled in southern Ontario where the rolling hills and dales reminded them of Lincolnshire. The Cambridge area, or Galt, Preston and Hespeler as it was called then, was highly influenced by Scottish settlers and many of the buildings in the downtown core were built by stonemasons of that era.
We used to go to Reid's Candy Shop which at that time was on Main Street in Galt and get barley sugar lollipops and rock candy all reminiscent for my parents of days spent at the "seaside" and days gone by. Reid's Candy Shop is still there but on on one of the side streets. They no longer sell "flip chips" either which were a childhood favourite of mine.
Up until a few years ago there was a Marks and Spencers in downtown "Galt". When I moved to Calgary I frequented the Marks & Spencers downtown as well simply to pick up some potato scones. They would bring them in fresh. They were not always available so it was a real treat for me when I came across them. Eventually you could get only frozen ones and they were more readily available. Sad for me but when Marks & Spencers shut down altogether they were not available at all!!
There is a bakery in the "Preston" area of Cambridge that makes them. When I was there at Christmas I preordered 12 dozen to carry home in my suitcase. There is no where to buy them here in the West that I can find so I am reduced to making my own. They are not a bad replica..but there is something about the ready made ones that I really like.
**Scottish Potato Scones**
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1-1/2 cups flour (more if necessary)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 T melted butter
1. Mash potatoes well, beat in butter with a fork. Sift dry ingredients and add to mashed potatoes.
2. Turn out on slightly floured board and knead with hands and form into a soft ball. Cut in half, roll out until 1/4-inch thin. Cut into 8 wedges.
3. With melted butter, bake on hot griddle, 3 minutes per side.
4. Serve warm with melted butter or toast at a later date to rewarm.
They are one of my faves for breakfast or snacking at any time for that matter!!!
Love tattie scones! It's been a while since I had them though. That will have to change later today!
ReplyDeleteI found the need on my own blog to get back to some of the basic family foods that we love. A few years ago I did up a cookbook for my daughter who was going away to university of her favourites. I ended up giving copies to my brothers and sister.....but...it is time for volume 2!!
ReplyDeleteMargarita, I've never had potato scones but I am certain that once I try this, I'll be a keeper. Thanks for the recipe.
ReplyDeleteYour welcome Nora! My daughter and I love them so hope you do too!! By the way I have posted the recipe for your Chritmas in July.
ReplyDeleteMy grandpa (when he was just 2) moved from Scotland to Canada, and then to Massachusetts. We ended up with Scottish shortbread as the official "family recipe" from the old country. But they had to eat more than just cookies! LOL...
ReplyDeleteI'll bet he and his family ate something much like this at home or out and about (if they could afford to do that). Sounds very carbohydratey and comforting.
Thanks for posting and introducing me to some of new heritage foods. :)
Erika