Secrets of perfect pancakes: From classic to creative twists

Pancakes are a dish that graces tables in almost every home. Their simplicity and versatility make them an ideal choice for a quick breakfast or lunch. To prepare classic pancakes, you only need a few ingredients: plain flour, eggs, milk, and a bit of oil. How do you make pancake batter? Try this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 125g plain flour
• 3 medium eggs
• 250ml of milk
• 250ml of water
• 4 tablespoons of oil
• Pinch of salt

Preparation method:

1. Mix flour, eggs, milk, water, and oil in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the batter's flavour.
2. Let the batter sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the flour to swell, giving the pancakes a silky smooth consistency.
3. Pour a portion of the batter onto a well-heated pan with a non-stick surface. The oil is already in the batter, so adding extra to the pan is unnecessary.
4. Fry the pancakes on both sides until they are golden brown and easy to flip.

For those who need to avoid milk, the question arises: How can this classic batter maintain its softness and tenderness without it?

Many ingredients can effectively replace milk and enrich our pancakes with a unique taste and excellent consistency.

One of the most popular milk substitutes in pancake recipes is buttermilk. It adds tenderness and fluffiness to the batter, making the pancakes velvety and preventing them from breaking during frying. Moreover, buttermilk contains fewer calories than yoghurt, making it an excellent choice for those watching their figure.

Sour cream also works wonderfully. It gives pancakes a rich flavour. Alternatives include plant-based drinks like soy or almond milk, which blend well with the other batter ingredients.

Anyone who has tried to make pancakes knows that frying doesn't always go according to plan. That's why it's worth knowing a few tricks to make the pancakes perfectly fluffy and tender every time. One key step is letting the batter sit for a few minutes before frying so it can "rest." This allows the ingredients to combine better, ensuring a uniform pancake structure.

Another important aspect is the temperature of the pan. It needs to be well-heated before applying the batter. A pan that is too cool will cause the pancakes to tear and stick. Proper frying also requires minimal oil, which prevents sticking while giving a beautiful golden colour.