Secrets to perfect pancakes: Tips for a seamless flip
Even with the perfect pancake batter, issues can occur during frying. If pancakes stick to the pan and are difficult to flip, they may not keep their shape and could end up torn. Fortunately, there's a way to prevent this.
Pancakes are often seen as the ultimate homemade treat. Straight from the pan, with your favourite toppings, they taste delightful. Although it seems like a simple dish, it doesn't always turn out perfect. Do you want to fry soft, elastic, and thin pancakes without them tearing and being difficult to flip? Here are some tips on how to achieve this and what to watch out for to ensure the pancakes don't stick to the pan.
Ensure the batter has the right consistency
Pancake batter must have the correct consistency. If it's too thick, it will likely stick. Therefore, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare it properly and to take all the necessary ingredients out of the fridge in advance. Beat the eggs first, then add the milk and flour.
Fortunately, thick batter is not a big issue. If it doesn’t spread smoothly over the pan and sticks, simply thin it with milk or water.
Pan temperature matters
To fry pancakes perfectly, the pan must be properly heated. Avoid setting the burner too high due to fears of burning the pancakes? That’s a mistake. First, heat the pan very well, then reduce the burner power. It’s crucial that the heat spreads evenly over the surface — that’s why pancakes are best fried on flat stovetops. On gas stoves, choose a larger burner.
If a pan is too cold, pancakes will undoubtedly stick. The pan itself is crucial. Using a pan with a non-stick coating is advisable, but remember that such pans require regular replacement. A worn coating won’t perform well, and the pancakes will stick.
Fry pancakes with or without fat?
If you add fat to the batter, there’s no need to apply it additionally to the pan. However, if you prefer frying pancakes in butter or oil, make sure to spread it evenly. In this case, grease the pan every 2-3 pancakes. It’s best to use a cooking brush, preferably silicone, to ensure the surface is covered with a thin layer of fat, allowing the pancakes to fry perfectly without sticking.
The right moment to flip
Frying pancakes requires some skill and patience. You need to accurately gauge the moment when you can flip them to the other side. They should be practically cooked by then, allowing you to do it with ease. If you attempt it too early, the pancake will still stick to the pan and will likely tear.
Use the salt trick
There's another trick to help you fry perfect pancakes. Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto a dry and heated pan and then continue heating it on low burner power for a short while. When the salt crystals start jumping, pour them out and wipe the pan. Afterwards, spread a bit of oil or butter on it and start frying the pancakes. Even the thinnest pancakes won't stick.
