A spurtle is a wooden kitchen tool from Scotland that is used primarily for stirring porridge oats whilst cooking. Traditionally it is considered to be better than a spoon when it comes to mixing. This is due to the slim tip which prevents oats from clumping together. That being said throughout Scotland, they believe that this tool is superior for stirring just about anything. From soup, stews, broths, and bread dough this is a super handy simple tool.
What is the history of the spurtle?
The spurtle's clever design facilitated effortless stirring of dense porridge, preventing it from adhering to the pot or forming clumps. Its sleek surface and shape streamlined circular stirring motions, ensuring the porridge remained smooth.
Spurtles were hand-carved from wood and cherished across generations. Crafted from woods like birch or sycamore, they gradually gained worldwide popularity for their versatility in mixing an array of dishes. Today, spurtles come in varied materials such as wood, bamboo, or silicone, tailored to modern cooking needs and preferences.
While originating in Scotland, the spurtle's influence has reached far beyond. In places like India, it's employed to mix rice, adeptly keeping each grain separate. Dating back to the 15th century, spurtles are typically fashioned from beech, cherry, or maple, although they can be crafted from nearly any food-safe wood.
Spurtles are a simple tool to use and it takes us back to a simplistic way of stirring food just like our ancestors would have mixed foods using a stick. If you enjoy a good healthy bowl of oatmeal for breakfast in the morning then you should definitely consider this authentic tool to get the job done.
Spurtle's that have not been sanded properly are likely to cause splinters and this is common for machine made products. The size is another factor that could affect the price, each one can vary depending on the design. With that being said early spurtles were flat, and not the rounded type that you more commonly see. It was also not uncommon to have metal varieties.
How much do spurtles cost?
Spurtle prices change depending on the material, how well they're made, and the brand. Simple wooden spurtles might cost £3 to £10. Fancy sets, made with special woods or extra tools, might be £10 to £30 or more. Some spurtles, especially the handmade ones with rare woods, could be even pricier, maybe over £30 each. Prices can be different in various stores or online. A good-quality spurtle is often handmade from the right wood by a skilled craftsperson. If you want it personalised, like for a traditional Scottish gift, the price might be higher, from £4 to £26 or more.
How to use a spurtle?
Prepare ingredients and have the spurtle ready for use with an appropriate pot or bowl. Firmly grip the spurtle and gently stir in circular motions within your mixture—porridge, soup, or sauce—scraping the pot's base and edges to prevent sticking and break lumps in thicker mixtures. Adjust stirring speed and pressure for consistency, using the spurtle's shape to reach corners and edges. Test intermittently, adjusting technique, and when satisfied with the dish's consistency, serve immediately or continue cooking.
Where to Buy a Spurtle?
The Beechwood Scottish Thistle Spurtle is a lightweight, durable wooden stirrer, perfect for making lump-free porridge and stirring soups, stews, and broths. Its 23cm length ensures comfort and control. Simply rotate clockwise with your right hand for a traditional experience.
Buy Your Scottish Porridge Spurtle Here.
Spurtle - Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a spurtle better than a spoon for stirring porridge?
A spurtle’s slim, cylindrical tip prevents porridge oats from clumping together, ensuring a smoother consistency. Its design allows for efficient stirring without damaging the texture of the oats.
Can a spurtle be used for cooking other dishes besides porridge?
Yes, spurtles are versatile and can be used to stir soups, stews, broths, sauces, and even bread dough. Their shape makes them ideal for scraping pot edges and evenly mixing ingredients.
What materials are spurtles made from?
Traditionally, spurtles are made from wood, such as beech, cherry, maple, or sycamore. Modern spurtles can also be made from bamboo or silicone to suit contemporary cooking needs and preferences.
How do I avoid splinters when using a wooden spurtle?
To avoid splinters, choose a well-made spurtle that has been properly sanded. Machine-made spurtles are more likely to cause splinters, so opting for handcrafted ones ensures better quality.
What should I look for when buying a spurtle?
Consider the material (wood, bamboo, or silicone), size, and craftsmanship. If buying online, check customer reviews to ensure quality. For a personalised or traditional Scottish gift, look for handmade options crafted from food-safe woods.
