Indulge in the rich flavors of South Africa with our delectable South African pancake recipe. Drawing inspiration from the country’s diverse culinary heritage, these pancakes seamlessly blend sweet and savory elements. Crafted with a delicate balance of ingredients, including aromatic spices and locally sourced fillings, these pancakes offer a tantalizing taste of South African culture with every delightful bite.
Easy South African pancake recipe
A South African pancake, also known as "crêpes" or "pannekoek," is a thin and delicate flatbread that is popular in South Africa. It is distinct from the American-style pancake and often resembles a French crêpe. These pancakes are typically larger and thinner than their American counterparts, and they can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory variations. South African pancakes are often served with a variety of fillings, such as cinnamon sugar, jam, cheese, minced meat, or even curried mince. They are a beloved treat enjoyed during special occasions, festivals, and everyday gatherings throughout South Africa.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Filling of your choice (e.g., cinnamon sugar, jam, cheese, minced meat, etc.)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk and melted butter. Mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth batter.
- Let the batter rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and results in softer pancakes.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the pan.
- Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling it around to create a thin layer that covers the bottom.
- Cook the pancake for about 1-2 minutes on one side, until small bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to lift.
- Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until golden brown.
- Remove the pancake from the pan and place it on a plate.
- If making sweet pancakes, sprinkle your desired filling (e.g., cinnamon sugar) onto the pancake while it's still warm and then roll it up or fold it in quarters.
- If making savory pancakes, you can fill them with options like cheese or minced meat before rolling or folding.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more butter or oil to the pan as needed.Enjoy your delicious South African pancakes with your chosen fillings!
Video
Notes
One important thing to note when making South African pancakes is that the consistency of the batter is key. The batter should be thin, similar to that of a crepe batter. If it's too thick, the pancakes may end up too dense and heavy. On the other hand, if it's too thin, the pancakes might tear easily when flipping. Adjust the amount of milk in the recipe as needed to achieve the right consistency. Additionally, giving the batter some resting time before cooking allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid and results in softer and more tender pancakes.
Nutrition
Serving: 75g
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