If there is one thing I know about it's biscuits. Having sampled a huge variety in my time, (all in the name of research of course) I consider myself to be something of an expert.
However, there is usually something about a recipe that counts against it. Sometimes it's the preparation time, sometimes it's the need for an exotic ingredient that you wouldn't normally have. Sometimes it the exact time and temperature required to make them work.
The following recipe was scribbled down on a scrap of paper by a colleague of many years back and it sat in my recipe file until a few weeks ago when I finally gave it a try.
It only requires 4 standard store-cupboard ingredients, the proportions of which are easy to remember, the preparation is very easy, it makes loads, they keep well and, most importantly, they are absolutely delicious. (be warned - eating just one of these is a physical impossibility)
Those are the qualities that make this the best biscuit recipe in the world:
1 cup flour (self raising is best)
1 cup sugar
1 cup oats
200 grams hard margarine or butter at room temperature
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to form a dough. I put the dough in the fridge for about half an hour as it makes the next bit easier but it's not essential.
Form the dough into walnut-sized balls and place on a non-stick baking tray. Leave plenty of space for them to spread. Flatten the balls slightly with a fork.
Bake for 15 - 20 mins at 150 degrees C. A pale colour gives chewy biscuits, golden brown biscuits are crunchier. Makes approx 25 biscuits.
If you wanted to be really flash you could drizzle them with chocolate, sandwich them together with something tasty or try adding a bit of spice. Personally though I like them just as they are.
Thanks Janet - I owe you one.
