Shrove Tuesday, affectionately known as Pancake Day, occurs the day before Ash Wednesday, and marks the eve of Lent in many Christian traditions. Historically, Shrove Tuesday was the day to use up eggs and fats before embarking on the Lenten fast. What better way to utilise these ingredients, than by making pancakes?
This practice has evolved from a simple necessity into a global phenomenon, celebrating the versatility and delight of pancakes. The possibilities are endless, from the fluffy, buttery stacks of American pancakes dripping with maple syrup to the delicate, crêpes of France, filled with everything from simple sugar, Nutella and lemon juice to savoury ham and cheese. In Eastern Europe, blinis serve not just as a treat but as a base for luxurious toppings like smoked salmon and caviar and there are also an array of savoury vegetable pancakes.
This article aims to explore the pancake variations that could inspire your culinary adventures. Whether you’re a traditionalist at heart or an adventurous foodie, there’s a pancake out there for everyone. So, grab your frying pan, and let’s embark on a journey through the delicious, sizzling world of pancakes for Pancake Day.
In this video tutorial below, we’ll share with you the secrets to creating a fluffy American Style stack of pancakes that are not just any pancakes – these are gloriously fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth delights that could easily be the highlight of a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat and perfect for Pancake Day!
Let’s look at other options……
Banana Pancakes
Indulge in the delightful fusion of fluffy pancakes and the sweet allure of bananas with our special banana pancake recipe, designed for an unforgettable pancake day treat. Start by whisking together flour, a hint of sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, blend ripe mashed bananas, milk, a dash of vanilla extract, and an egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients for a smooth batter. Pour scoops onto a buttered griddle, cooking until bubbles form, then flip for that golden touch. Serve your towering stack drizzled with honey and topped with a generous scattering of crunchy walnuts for a celebratory feast.
French Style Pancakes
Whisk together a smooth batter from flour, eggs, milk, and a dash of sugar to create the base for these delicate crepes. Pour a thin layer into a hot, non-stick pan, tilting it to spread the batter thinly across the surface. Cook until the edges lift away, then flip to achieve a subtle golden hue. Once done, fill each crepe with a velvety blend of your favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread, roll them gently, and arrange on a plate. Garnish with a vibrant assortment of fresh berries like blackberries, red currants, and blueberries for a burst of colour and a touch of tartness. A final drizzle of chocolate sauce and a dusting of powdered sugar will elevate this dish, making it a feast for the eyes and a delight for the palate.
Experience the simple elegance of classic French crepes, dusted with a snowy sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Begin by blending a silky batter of eggs, flour, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Pour just enough onto a hot skillet to create a thin layer, swirling to cover the surface. Cook each crepe to a light golden brown, then carefully fold into quarters, creating delicate layers. Crown this airy stack with a few lemon wedges, adding a bright citrus note when squeezed over the top. The finishing touch is a generous sifting of powdered sugar, cascading down like a gentle snowfall, transforming these crepes into a picturesque and delectable dessert or breakfast indulgence.
Image: freepik
Japanese Souffle Pancakes
Japanese pancakes, also known as soufflé pancakes, are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, known for their fluffy and airy texture. These light-as-air pancakes are made by whipping egg whites into a meringue and gently folding them into a batter made with egg yolks, sugar, flour, baking powder, and a dash of vanilla for an extra hint of flavour. The secret to their signature height and jiggle is in the cooking process: the batter is cooked on a low heat in a covered pan, allowing the steam to help the pancakes rise and maintain their fluffiness. Served with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of softly whipped cream, and fresh berries, Japanese pancakes bring a taste of Tokyo’s trendy breakfast spots right to your kitchen.
Image: Tawan Ramtang/Shutterstock.com
Chocolate Pancakes
Begin your chocolate pancake journey by sifting 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together one egg, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 cup of milk until well combined. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring until a smooth batter forms. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach the desired consistency. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly coat with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface and the edges appear set, then flip to cook the other side until it’s also browned and the pancake is cooked through. Serve the pancakes in a stack, layering with fresh blueberries, and drizzle generously with warm chocolate sauce for a truly indulgent breakfast or dessert.
Spinach Pancakes with Banana
These vibrant gluten-free spinach and banana pancakes are a nutritious and delicious start to the day. To create them, start by blending a ripe banana with fresh spinach, your choice of gluten-free flour or ground oats, a hint of baking powder, a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost, and almond milk to reach the desired consistency. For sweetness and flavour, you can add a touch of honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Heat a non-stick pan and pour in small amounts of the batter, cooking each pancake until bubbles form on the surface, then flip to achieve a golden hue on both sides. Stack the pancakes high, and serve with a generous topping of fresh blueberries.
As we bring our Pancake Day celebration to a close, we’ve explored a delightful array of ideas that display the versatility of pancakes. From the airy heights of Japanese soufflé pancakes to the nourishing embrace of gluten-free spinach and banana pancakes, and the classic comfort of fluffy American stacks, there’s no shortage of ways to honor this beloved tradition. Pancake Day is not just about indulging in sweet and savory treats; it’s a testament to the creativity that can be sparked in every home cook’s kitchen.
Whether you’re flipping a pancake for the first time or you’re a seasoned cook, try a new variation! We hope these ideas have inspired you to turn your kitchen into a Pancake Day paradise. Remember, the beauty of pancakes lies in their simplicity and the joy they bring to those who cook and eat them. So, as the skillet heats up and the batter sizzles, let’s celebrate Pancake Day with enthusiasm and a dash of culinary adventure. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!