Pancakes are eaten across the world, though the range of styles
and flavors is quite surprising. For example, over in Europe in France
and Belgium, they tend to be very thin. However, in the US, it is common
for them to be quite thick. Another take is the Dutch pancake recipe,
which often makes for a meal in itself. Many people are surprised to
learn that the humble pancake is a firm favorite on dining tables across
the Netherlands, but it is true. However, these differ greatly from the
crepes of France, being much more like an Italian pizza in many
respects.
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| source: camillestyles.com |
A traditional Dutch pancake recipe would be too large
for most household kitchens, but here is a simple and tasty basic recipe
with a few ideas, that is a little smaller. This should be good for two
or three pancakes; ideal for the family. There a no more than three
ingredients which make up the basis of a recipe, though salt, pepper and
sugar can be added. All that is need is 125 grams, (or 4 ounces), of
flour, an egg, and 250ml, (or half a pint), of milk. These should be
beaten together, with the milk going in slowly, once the egg and flour
have been thoroughly combined.
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| source: wholefoodsmarket.com |
A skillet, griddle or something
similar can be used, and whichever is used to be well heated for a few
minutes; until smoking ideally. Once hot, a little oil should be added
and also warmed for a while. Using a ladle, the batter mixture should be
spooned onto the pan, and cooked until the downside starts to brown. At
this point, it should be turned, (or flipped), for the other side to be
done.
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| Source: authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com |
This will not take as long to cook as the first, and should
be removed immediately once browned. The pancake needs to be set aside
and kept warm, whilst the others are cooked, and then it just needs to
be decided how to serve. A popular topping, which the kids will love, is
to drench the pancakes in icing sugar, (poedersuiker) and sugar syrup,
(stroop). Butter on its own works well though, whilst others favor lemon
juice and brown sugar. Savories are also great; particularly bacon and
cheese.
There is no real limit to what you add to a Dutch pancake
recipe, as is well demonstrated in the Netherlands itself. Each street
appears to have its own Pannenkoekenhuizen, (pancake shop), selling
nothing but the things; each with its own take on this fantastic food.
