In parts of Scotland it is traditional to eat the Beltane Bannock first thing on Beltane morning. This is said to assure abundance for your household, crops and livestock for the year. Traditionally the Bannock was made with animal fat, such as lard, or bacon grease. Then it was placed on a stone on top of a pile of embers to cook. Once blackened on both sides it was removed and served with a mixture of eggs and milk. It can of course be cooked in the oven and instead of animal fat you can make it with butter if you prefer. For a vegan version, simply replace the fat with vegetable shortening. Ingredients 1 1/2 cup oatmeal 1/8 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1 Tbs. lard or butter 1/2 cup hot water Directions Combine oatmeal, salt and baking soda in a bowl. Melt the butter, and drizzle it over the oats. Add the water, and stir the mix until it forms a stiff dough. Turn the dough out on a sheet of wax paper and knead thoroughly. Separate the dough into two equal portions, and roll each one into a ball. Use a rolling pin to make a flat pancake that is about ¼" thick. Cook your oatcakes on a griddle over medium heat until they are golden brown. Cut each round into quarters to serve. The energies of this dish will change slightly depending on what type of fat you choose to use. I've included the basic energies of pork, beef and butter here. Use whichever one you prefer. Oats: Money, prosperity, abundance. Salt: protection, banishing, exorcism Lard: Pork - Strength; fertility; luck; prosperity; longevity Beef - grounding, prosperity, protection, energy, excitement, strength Butter - Spirituality, Communication, Reconciliation, Enhancing Energies