Aberdeen Butteries, also known as rowies, are a unique and cherished culinary delight originating from Aberdeen, Scotland. These flaky, buttery pastries have a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.
The story of Aberdeen Butteries begins with the city’s thriving fishing industry. Fishermen needed a hearty and portable meal to sustain them during long and arduous days at sea. Thus, the buttery was born as a practical and tasty solution.
The traditional recipe for Aberdeen Butteries includes simple yet essential ingredients – flour, butter, yeast, salt, and sugar. What sets them apart is the copious amount of butter used, giving them a distinctive flavor and a texture that is both crisp and tender.
Over the years, the buttery has become an integral part of Aberdeen’s culinary identity. Locals and visitors alike indulge in these delectable pastries, often enjoying them with various toppings such as jam or cheese.
While the exact origin of the name “rowie” or “buttery” remains unclear, it is widely believed that the term “rowie” may be derived from the rowing motion used in shaping the dough. Regardless of the name’s origin, the popularity of Aberdeen Butteries has transcended regional boundaries.
Despite their humble beginnings, Aberdeen Butteries have gained international acclaim, with enthusiasts attempting to replicate the authentic recipe in various corners of the globe. The distinctive taste and cultural significance of these pastries have turned them into a symbol of Aberdeen’s culinary heritage.
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote the tradition of making authentic Aberdeen Butteries. Local bakeries, culinary events, and food festivals often feature these pastries, allowing both locals and visitors to savor a piece of history.
In conclusion, Aberdeen Butteries are more than just a baked treat – they are a testament to the city’s maritime history and a beloved culinary tradition. Whether enjoyed fresh from a local bakery or homemade, these buttery delights continue to hold a special place in the hearts and taste buds of those who appreciate the unique flavors and history they bring to the table.
Traditional Aberdeen Butteries
Ingredients:
- 500g strong white bread flour
- 10g salt
- 10g sugar
- 10g active dry yeast
- 300ml lukewarm water
- 250g unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the strong white bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well in the flour. Gradually mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Butter Layer:
- Flatten the softened butter between two sheets of parchment paper into a rectangle.
- Create Layers:
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Place the butter layer on one half of the dough and fold the other half over, creating a butter sandwich.
- Fold and Roll:
- Roll out the dough again into a rectangle and fold it in thirds like a letter. Repeat this process two more times, allowing the dough to rest in between each fold.
- Final Rise:
- After the final fold, let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Shape and Cut:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and cut it into squares or triangles, depending on your preference.
- Bake:
- Place the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Enjoy:
- Allow the Aberdeen Butteries to cool slightly before indulging in their flaky, buttery goodness. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings or enjoy them on their own.
Now you have a homemade batch of Aberdeen Butteries to savor and share!
Gourmet Aberdeen Butteries with Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- 500g strong white bread flour
- 10g sea salt
- 10g sugar
- 10g active dry yeast
- 300ml lukewarm water
- 250g high-quality cultured unsalted butter, cold
- Smoked salmon slices
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
For Dill Cream Cheese:
- 150g cream cheese
- Fresh dill, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine strong white bread flour and sea salt. Create a well in the center.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the activated yeast mixture into the well. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Chill Butter:
- Cut the cold butter into thin slices. Place them between parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator while the dough rises.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Create Layers:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Place the chilled butter slices on one half and fold the other half over, creating layers.
- Fold and Chill:
- Roll out the dough again, fold it in thirds, and chill for 30 minutes. Repeat this process two more times.
- Final Rise:
- After the final fold, let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Shape and Cut:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and cut into squares. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
For Dill Cream Cheese:
- Combine cream cheese, chopped dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Assembly:
- Slice the Aberdeen Butteries in half.
- Spread a generous layer of dill cream cheese on each half.
- Top with smoked salmon slices.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill.
Serve immediately and enjoy these gourmet Aberdeen Butteries as a delightful and sophisticated treat!
Keto Aberdeen Butteries with Almond Flour and Garlic Herb Butter
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Garlic Herb Butter (for brushing):
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, xanthan gum, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate Butter:
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat the egg and add it to the mixture along with apple cider vinegar. Mix until a dough forms.
- Shape the Dough:
- Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper and shape it into a rectangle. Use another sheet of parchment on top to prevent sticking.
- Fold and Chill:
- Fold the dough into thirds like a letter. Wrap it in parchment and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Fold:
- Roll out the chilled dough again, fold it in thirds, and repeat this process twice more. This creates layers for flakiness.
- Cut and Bake:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and cut it into squares or triangles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
For Garlic Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, dried herbs, and salt.
Brush and Serve:
- Once the Aberdeen Butteries are out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic herb butter.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these keto-friendly Aberdeen Butteries, perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle!
Not Your Grams Kitchen 