Q: I have a friend visiting from Scotland in the spring and I want to surprise her with a proper Scottish breakfast. I have almost everything figured out except for the “tattie” scones. I’ve looked for them in stores since I don’t really bake, but I haven’t had any luck. If you could help with this request, I would be so relieved. Thank you. — Betsy Little, Atlanta
A: A tattie also is known as a potato scone in Scotland, and a potato farl in Ireland. But, whatever you call it, this flat bread, often made with leftover potatoes, is an essential component to a traditional, hearty Scottish breakfast. Tatties have little in common with the sweeter English tea time scones. You can visit the freezer section of Taste of Britain, 73 S. Peachtree St., Norcross, 770-242-8585, and stock up on six-packs of Cameron’s potato scones for $3.95 each. That should round out your authentic Scottish breakfast nicely.
Q: I have some recipes that call for frozen tart cherries and haven’t been able to locate them at Publix, Kroger, Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods. Does any store carry those in Atlanta? Thanks. — V. Ball, Alpharetta
A: Sour or tart cherries differ from sweet cherries, such as the sweet Bing or the pretty yellow Rainier cherries found in the fruit section of your grocery store. Tart cherries, also called pie cherries, don’t lose flavor when cooked, and sour cherry juice is thought to have anti-inflammatory and other medicinal properties. While in the U.S. most of the tart cherries, such as Montmorency, are grown in Michigan, the majority of the world’s sour cherry crop comes from Russia. Locally, you’ll find frozen sour cherries from Russia on aisle 21 at Buford Highway Farmers Market, 5600 Buford Highway, Doraville, 770-455-0770. A 10.58-ounce bag costs $5.50.
Q: I love your column and it amazes me how you find all the items you do. I have been looking for a watch repair that can remove the back of the Michel Jordi watch I got in Switzerland. I’ve taken it to numerous places to get a new battery, and no one has been able to remove the back to take a look. I miss wearing it, and would be so happy if you could help. Thank you. — Candice Howland, Pine Lake
A: I called Bowers Watch and Clock Repair, 2441 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta, 404-327-7850, which has been repairing watches and clocks in Atlanta since the 1940s. The person I spoke with at the store is familiar with Michel Jordi watches and is confidant that he can replace your battery without problems. Battery installation costs $10.
Q: I really like the crispness, coolness and smoothness of percale sheets. Also, they used to come in bright prints. Recently, I’ve found that there are fewer available, and they seem to come predominantly in solids. Is there new terminology for percale or has something with another term replaced the characteristics of percale? Thanks. — Bob Jones
A: Bob, percale refers to the method of weaving used to make various fabrics, and they’re still around. While many percale bed sheets are made of 100 percent cotton, you’ll also find them made of cotton blends as well as linen. I found patterned sheets with a percale weave at Kohl’s, Northlake Mall, 4800 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, 770-938-3565. Prices depend on what size you need.
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