Abernethy biscuits are a type of traditional Scottish biscuit that is believed to have originated in the village of Abernethy, which is located in the eastern Highlands of Scotland. These biscuits have a long history, and are thought to date back to the early 18th century.
Abernethy biscuits are made with simple ingredients, including flour, sugar, butter, and rolled oats. They are typically flavored with a small amount of caraway seeds, which give them a distinctive and slightly spicy flavor. The dough for these biscuits is formed into small rounds, which are then baked until golden brown and crisp.
One of the things that makes Abernethy biscuits unique is the fact that they are not sweet like many other types of biscuits. Instead, they are slightly savory, with a delicate flavor that is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. They are often served as part of a traditional Scottish afternoon tea, along with other savory snacks like cheese and oatcakes.
In addition to their tasty flavor, Abernethy biscuits are also known for their nutritional value. The rolled oats used in the dough provide a good source of fiber, while the caraway seeds are believed to have digestive benefits. These biscuits are also relatively low in sugar, making them a healthier option than many other types of biscuits.
Despite their long history, Abernethy biscuits are not as well-known outside of Scotland as some other types of biscuits. However, they are still enjoyed by many people, both in Scotland and elsewhere, and can be found in some specialty food shops and online retailers.
These didn’t originate from the village of Abernethy. A Dr. Abernethy proposed the addition of caraway to a more run-of-the-mill biscuit recipe, and the result was named after him. There was a fad at the time for a biscuit that supposedly aided the digestive process, and Abernethy biscuits are of the same vintage and for the same purpose as digestive biscuits and Graham crackers.
Thanks for the info Phil – do you have a source for that? If so we’ll update the article (and give you a shout-out!)