Pancakes

pancakes

English pancakes are a quintessential breakfast treat enjoyed by people all over the world. They are thin, light and fluffy rounds of goodness that pair perfectly with a wide range of toppings, from the traditional lemon and sugar to the more decadent chocolate spread and fresh fruit. These pancakes are so versatile that they can be served as a delicious and filling breakfast, a delightful snack, or even a simple dessert.

English pancakes are often eaten on Pancake Day in the UK, which is known as Shrove Tuesday. It is celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, and has been a popular UK tradition for centuries. The word “shrove” comes from the old English word “shrive,” which means to confess or repent. Traditionally, people would use up all of their indulgent ingredients such as eggs, butter, and sugar before the start of Lent, which is a period of fasting and penance in the Christian calendar. Pancake Day was a way for people to use up these ingredients and enjoy one last feast before the fast began.

When it comes to making English pancakes, the recipe is very straightforward and easy to follow. You only need a few simple ingredients such as flour, eggs, milk, and butter. The key to creating perfect pancakes lies in the consistency of the batter. It should be smooth and thin enough to spread easily in the pan, but thick enough to hold its shape and create a fluffy texture. Some people like to add a pinch of salt or a couple of tablespoons of sugar to their batter to enhance the flavor.

To make English pancakes, you start by sifting the flour into a bowl and making a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and whisk them, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges. Slowly pour in the milk and continue to whisk until you have a smooth batter. Melt a knob of butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, then add a ladle of the pancake batter to the pan. Swirl the pan to spread the batter evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges start to curl and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the pancake over using a spatula or a flick of the wrist and cook for a further 30 seconds to 1 minute until it is cooked through.

Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can get creative with your toppings. One classic option is a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of sugar, which creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. Another favorite is to spread a layer of Nutella or chocolate sauce on the pancake and top it with fresh berries or sliced bananas. For a more savory option, you can top your pancakes with crispy bacon and maple syrup, or even a poached egg and spinach.

In conclusion, English pancakes are a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, the possibilities are endless. So why not try making some pancakes at home yourself and see how creative you can get with your toppings? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients:

  • 125g plain flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 300ml milk
  • 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter, for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Sift the flour and salt into a bowl.

  2. Make a well in the centre and add the eggs and a little milk.

  3. Whisk the eggs and gradually whisk in the flour, stirring in the remaining milk gradually, to make a smooth batter.

  4. Add the vegetable oil and let the batter rest for 30 minutes.

  5. Heat a little butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

  6. Once hot, pour in a small amount of the batter to cover the pan thinly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Flip the pancake over and cook for a further 1 minute on the other side.

  8. Serve the pancakes with your favourite toppings, such as lemon and sugar, or Nutella and banana. Enjoy!