breakfast crumpets

every saturday morning i try a new breakfast recipe.  this recipe comes from a cookbook i have used for years called tea time at the inn.  this book features recipes from many bed and breakfast inns from around the county.  most of the recipes within the cookbook are basic recipes that seem to be time tested over the years.  this crumpet recipe is very similar to an english muffin recipe i have also used successfully. however, these directions are even more simplified and require less ingredients.  by using english muffin or crumpet rings on the griddle, these morning biscuits are very easy to prepare, shape, cook and serve.   after cooking, the crumpets cool on a wire rack for a bit, or can be served warm right off the griddle. i enjoy them sliced in half and toasted with jam or marmalade.  we used stonewall kitchen's lemon pear marmalade for this meal.  here is the recipe:  1 package of dry yeast, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1 3/4 cups of warm water, 2 cups flour, 1 tbsp. baking soda, 3/4 tsp salt. dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water.  whisk well.  heat griddle to 400 degrees.  grease crumpet rings and place on griddle.  pour batter into rings until half full.  cook until bubble form.  flip with ring to brown other side of crumpet.  serve and enjoy.  this is one half of the printed recipe and makes about nine crumpets. they are light, airy and oh so delicious!