Pancakes are one of the most popular breakfast items around the world and there are seldom few who don’t prefer this flour based goodness. There are so many ways a pancake can be made. Pancakes are so versatile, you can hardly go wrong with any combination. However, traditionally, pancakes are served with maple syrup and a dab of butter. With pancakes being so popular, many companies have brought out instant pancake mixes, that too in different flavors. But there’s nothing more pleasurable than whipping up your own batch of fresh pancakes and indulging in them. If you don’t know how to make pancakes, read on and learn how to make pancake.
Complexity level: Basic
Time required: 15 to 20 minutes
Resources required:
1. 2 cups flour
2. 2 table spoons sugar
3. 4 tea spoons baking powder
4. 1/2 tea spoon salt
5. 2 eggs
6. 2 cups milk
7. 4 table spoons vegetable oil
8. 2 table spoons butter
9. Large mixing bowl
10. Wire whisk
11. Frying pan
12. Condiments like maple syrup, strawberries, etc.
Instructions:
1. Preparing the batter:
- In the large mixing bowl, sieve the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt and stir to get an even mixture.
- Beat the eggs with a wire whisk and add the milk and vegetable oil. Whisk well until mixed properly.
- Now add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, i.e., into the flour mix, pour the egg mix slowly and whisk for about 1 to 2 minutes.
- The batter should be lump free and smooth and there should not be any traces of flour seen.
2. Cooking:
- Place the frying pan on to the hob and heat it up mildly.
- Put about a tablespoon of butter on to the pan and wait for it to melt. This is to ensure that the pancake does not stick to the pan.
- Test if the pan is hot enough by pouring a few drops of water on the pan and if it sizzles immediately, then you are ready to start making them.
- Take one ladle full of batter and pour on to the pan. Ideally, a pancake should be about 4 to 5 inches in diameter, but it can be made bigger or smaller according to your choice.
- Once the top part of the pancake begins to lightly bubble, you can flip it using a spatula. The underside should be a nice golden brown color and should hold its shape.
- Once you flip the pancake for a few minutes, press it down lightly with the spatula to check if it’s cooked. If it regains its original shape then you can take it off the pan. But if it stays flat, then you need to cook if for a bit longer.
- Continue preparing the remaining batter in the same way.
- if in between you feel that the pancakes are sticking to the pan, add some more butter.
3. Serving:
- Place the cooked pancakes on to a serving plate.
- Once you are ready to eat the pancakes in batches of two or three , dab a knob of butter on top and drizzle with maple syrup.
- You can also add any fruit, lime juice and even whipped cream for a heavier version.
- Slice into them using a fork and knife and enjoy.
Frequently asked questions:
1. How do I store my pancakes?
Cool the pancakes first and then layer them between baking paper which would prevent sticking. You can also cling wrap them when they are cool, and then store in the freezer for up to one month. When you are ready to use, thaw them at room temperature and then warm in a microwave or oven.
2. What do I do if my pancakes are not browning?
If your pancakes are not browning properly, then this means the pan isn’t hot enough. Do the water sizzling test to check if the heat is perfect and then start cooking. Also remember that a smoking hot pan can burn butter which can ruin the pancakes.
Quick tips:
1. Resting the batter for about 20 minutes is advised as it would allow the starch in the flour to swell and soften, giving you a lighter batter and softer pancakes.
2. Using oil instead of butter on the pan is much healthier.
3. Using a bit of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter makes interesting flavors.
4. Don’t over mix the batter, just whisk till they are combined and lump free.
Things to watch out for:
1. Stacking the pancakes immediately after cooking can result in soggy ones.
2. Be careful not to burn yourself.
