Sowens

When people got the oat seeds back from the mill after they were ground, they could be put into boiling water. The crock was covered with a lid and the mixture was left until it turned sour. This could take about 3 weeks. A bundle of clean, long straw was then brought in and placed over a pot, acting as a strainer for the boiled mixture. It was then boiled again until it thickened and salt was added. When cooled, the mixture was slippery to the touch and could be eaten

Killinny East, Co.Galway

Collector: Unknown

Informant: Patrick Griffin, Doocarrick, Co. Donegal

Duchas, ‘The Schools’ Collection’, www.duchas.ie