Perfect Soft and Fluffy Turkish Pancakes: A Delightful Breakfast Recipe
Ingredients
To make these delicious Turkish pancakes, you will need:
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing the pan)
- 1 cup (200 ml) water
- 2 cups (400 ml) milk
- 10.5 ounces (300 grams) flour
- Small bunch of dill, finely chopped
- Optional: Additional egg for topping, hot pepper, or other spices for sprinkling
Ingredient Notes:
- Flour: All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, giving the pancakes a soft and fluffy texture.
- Dill: Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor, making these pancakes distinctively Turkish. If you’re not a fan of dill, you can omit it or substitute with herbs like parsley or chives.
- Spices: Customize your pancakes by sprinkling with your favorite spices like hot pepper, paprika, or cumin for a savory touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and whisk it together with the salt and sugar until well combined. The sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the salt enhances the overall flavor.
- Add the olive oil, water, and milk to the bowl. Mix well until the liquids are fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. You want a smooth batter that’s slightly thicker than crepe batter but thinner than traditional pancake batter.
- Finely chop the small bunch of dill and fold it into the batter. The dill will add a fresh, herby flavor that makes these pancakes unique.
Step 2: Rest the Batter
- Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the batter rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flour to fully hydrate, which helps the pancakes cook evenly and gives them a soft texture.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Brush the pan lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Pour a small ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling gently to spread it out into a thin, even layer. You can make the pancakes as large or small as you prefer.
- Cook the pancake until the top turns matte and bubbles start to form. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once the top looks dry, flip the pancake using a spatula.
- Cook the other side until golden brown, about another 1-2 minutes. Remove from the pan and place on a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, brushing the pan with olive oil as needed between pancakes.
Step 4: Add Egg and Spices (Optional)
- For an extra treat, you can break an egg onto the pancake just after flipping it. Sprinkle with a pinch of hot pepper or your favorite spices. Cover the pan with a lid to cook the egg to your desired doneness.
- If you prefer, you can skip the egg and simply sprinkle the pancakes with spices like paprika, cumin, or black pepper for added flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the pancakes warm, either plain or with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. These pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings.
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
- Consistent Heat: Keep the heat at medium to ensure the pancakes cook evenly without burning. Adjust the heat as needed if the pancakes are browning too quickly or slowly.
- Rest the Batter: Don’t skip the resting step! Allowing the batter to rest helps relax the gluten in the flour, making the pancakes softer and fluffier.
- Customizations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding finely chopped vegetables like spring onions or spinach for a savory twist, or sprinkle with cheese for added richness.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 pancakes (depending on size)
- Calories: 140 kcal per pancake
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Pair these pancakes with a side of fresh salad, olives, and feta cheese for a traditional Turkish-style breakfast.
- Sweet Option: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and top with fresh berries for a delightful sweet version.
- On-the-Go Snack: These pancakes are great for snacking on the go. Simply roll them up with your favorite fillings, like cheese or smoked salmon.