I often think Pancake Day is well placed and enjoyed; if not least, because it falls six or so; weeks after New Year’s resolutions start. Many resolutions would have been well-being and health-related. So, for many, Pancake Day provides the perfect excuse to break some rules after weeks of being ‘good’!
When
Pancake Day is, of course; Shrove Tuesday – which precedes Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of lent, 40 days of fasting in the run-up to Easter. The date varies each year, and in 2023 it will be on Tuesday 21st of February.
Why pancakes
Shrove Tuesday was a chance to use up eggs, fats and other products that could not be eaten or nowadays would be too tempting to have around in a fasting period.
Pancake style
In the UK we tend to favour crêpe style pancakes over thicker, fluffier American-style pancakes. The main difference, in case you were wondering; is the use of a raising agent, like baking powder.
Toppings
Traditional toppings in the UK are granulated sugar/squeezed lemon juice – added just as the cakes comes out of the pan. But nowadays, anything goes – you might add raisins or chocolate chips to the batter. Fresh fruit, yoghurt, whipped cream or ice cream might adorn the top! You can make them as plain or as fancy as you like!
Origins
Many countries and nationalities have a version of a pancake in their culinary armour. It is believed, that, pancakes were first written about by a poet in Ancient Greece.
Secrets
Anyone that has cooked pancakes before; will know that the first pancake is usually a dud. At that point, you might have the pan too hot, the batter may not be thin enough, or it could have all just gone wrong in the flip! Why not check out some of these recipes; if you are looking for a way to get a perfect pancake – to suit every tastebud:
www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/recipes/classic-crepe-pancakes/
www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/eggs-recipes/pancakes-usa-stylie/
feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/sheet-pan-pancakes/
www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/almond-flour-pancakes
www.peta.org.uk/living/vegan-pancakes-2023/
/www.olivemagazine.com/recipes/collection/best-ever-savoury-pancake-recipes-for-pancake-day/
Tweet