Palmer resident Georgia Barkwood has earned a spot among the world’s top porridge makers. Notably, she competed in Scotland’s Golden Spurtle competition at the World Porridge Making Championship, where she showcased her exceptional oatmeal skills. Building on her previous success, Barkwood’s journey began at the Alaska Scottish Highland Games, where she won two spurtle championships. This victory, in turn, inspired her to take on the world champion competition in Carrbridge, Scotland.
Although Barkwood didn’t win the Golden Spurtle, she cherished the experience. “Not winning means I’m among the top 30 porridge makers globally,” she said. Moreover, Barkwood enjoyed the competition and Scotland’s welcoming atmosphere. In addition, she appreciated the challenge of competing under pressure.
To compete, Barkwood made two pints of traditional porridge using oats, water, and salt within 30 minutes. Similarly, she created a specialty porridge, a shrimp and grits variation using oats instead of grits. Furthermore, Barkwood explained the uniqueness of the spurtle, a traditional Scottish dowel used for cooking. “It’s typically made of birch and gets into the nooks and crannies of pots,” she said.
Her experience in Scotland was invaluable. “I feel like I’ve attended the University of Porridge,” Barkwood jokes. Consequently, she’s already planning her next move, eager to improve and compete again. Meanwhile, as a seasoned competitor, Barkwood will judge the next Alaska Scottish Highland Games’ spurtle competition. “I want to boost our event,” she said.
In response to a question about the difference between porridge and oatmeal, Barkwood admitted uncertainty. “Regionally, some call it porridge, while others say oats,” she said. However, for the Golden Spurtle contest, porridge specifically means oats.
Ultimately, Georgia Barkwood’s expertise shines in the World Porridge Championships. Her dedication earns her a spot among the top porridge makers. Likewise, Barkwood’s passion for porridge drives her to improve, as evident in the World Porridge Championships, which bring together talented cooks like Barkwood.
This news story was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
