Nairn’s Scottish Oatcakes

Oats. A grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.         ~Samuel Johnson

The world has both changed and stayed the same since Samuel Johnson (a writer famous for publishing “A Dictionary of the English Dictionary” in 1755) graced us with his wit and talent. Although England has since embraced oats in their diet, the Scots have continued to revel the grain that is well suited to Scotland’s  short, wet growing season.

Nairn’s – an Edinburgh, Scotland-based company – is proud of its oaty heritage. Since 1896, the company has been making Scottish Oatcakes, a long-lasting alternative to bread that can be enjoyed right out of the box or with cheese and other toppings. Nairn’s Scottish Oatcakes, as their name suggests are made primarily from whole grain oats (71%-90% depending on the variety) grown in Scotland, sunflower oil, palm fruit oil, baking soda, and sea salt. With no sugar added, the emphasis is on the tasty oat flavor which pairs well for those who want a tasty snack without added sugar and other sweeteners.

Nairn’s Scottish Oatcakes come in seven flavors:

Rough Oatcakes: These are seriously oaty with 88% whole grain oats and set a standard by which all other oatcakes are measured.

Fine Milled Oatcakes: Thinner and crispier than Rough Oatcakes, the Fine Milled Oatcakes have a lighter texture and creamy taste. Made with finely milled oats (85%) and only one type of oil (palm fruit), these oatcakes are perfect for nut butters (and banana slices).

Organic Oatcakes: Made with organically grown whole grain oats (89%), these oatcakes have a deliciously intense toasty oat flavor that is perfect for savory or sweet toppings.

Mini Oatcakes:  Fine milled whole grain oats (84%) give these mini oatcakes a lighter texture and a mild, creamy flavor. Enjoy right out of the bag or as a base for a “popper.”

Herb & Pumpkin Oatcakes: These oatcakes combine all the goodness of whole grain oats (76%), sunflower seeds (12%) and herbs: thyme, rosemary, and parsley to make a delicious full flavored snack as is or with a mild topping.

Cheese Oatcakes: Whole grain oats (71%) combined with cheddar cheese (15%) make for a versatile oatcake that can easily be served as is or with a complementary topping (red pepper relish or bruschetta).

Cracked Black Pepper Oatcakes: This limited edition variety oatcake is made with 91% whole grain oats – the highest of all the varieties. A healthy dose of black pepper makes for a peppery kick that will liven up any mild flavored cheeseboard.

Nairn’s Scottish Oatcakes come packaged in a 291 gram box (10.2 ounces) and can be purchased for $4-$5 per box at grocery stores nationwide including Hannaford, Whole Foods, Fairway, and more. The oatcakes can also be purchased on-line at www.abesmarket.com, www.vitacost.com, www.amazon.com, and www.iherb.com.

To read more about Nairn’s Scottish Oatcakes and the company’s other products, visit their website at www.nairns-oatcakes.com.