what a pancake!
We've decided to embark on a fascinating culinary journey dedicated to pancakes. We'll explore variations of pancakes around the world, try different methods of making pancake batter, experiment with fillings, and find the perfect Maslenitsa recipe.
fluffy Japanese pancakes
In this episode, we'll explore Japanese fluffy pancakes. These delicate and airy pancakes are much fluffier than traditional ones thanks to the air bubbles whipped into the egg whites. We'll serve them with maple syrup and fresh berries. How delicious!
French crepe suzette
We continue our journey through pancakes from around the world. This time, we'll head to France to make classic French crepes, called crêpes suzette. We'll learn how they differ from their Russian counterparts and where the name comes from. We'll also learn how to serve them properly and what oranges have to do with them. And, of course, we can't leave you without a little suspense—we'll reveal the secret ingredient included in the recipe.
Arabic pancakes (Katayef)
We continue our culinary journey and today we'll head east to try making Arabic kataiyef pancakes. These delicate, stuffed pancakes are filled with creamy custard and crunchy pistachios. Kataiyef was first mentioned in the Arabic culinary "Book of Dishes" back in the 10th century, and its recipe has remained unchanged ever since, becoming a favorite dessert for many holidays and special occasions.
Thai pancakes (Roti)
We've tried so much already, and there's so much more to come! Today's destination is Thailand! We'll be making Thai roti pancakes with banana. Historically, roti originates from Indian flatbread. There, the dish is prepared with numerous spices and is very spicy. But the Thais modified it and made it sweet. We'll see how it turns out.
Indian pancakes (Dosa)
We're wrapping up our culinary journey through various countries. Our final destination is India and Indian dosa. India boasts many round flatbreads and pancakes. However, what makes dosa unique is its mixture of fermented rice and mung beans. Add some spices and vegetable chutney, and you'll be ready to put on a sari and dance.
pancakes with milk, chicken, and mushrooms
The first day of Maslenitsa week is called "Meeting." It's customary to visit relatives on this day. And when visiting, you should bring something very filling. Today we'll be making stuffed pancakes with milk, chicken, and mushrooms. I can't wait to try them!
kefir pancakes with red fish and cream cheese
The second day of Maslenitsa is called "Flirting," and on this day, young people would visit each other for a "matchmaking." This is how people in Rus' found their betrothed. We'll be catching quality suitors with live bait. Today, we're making kefir pancakes with red fish and soft cream cheese.
beer pancakes with roast beef
Traditionally, on the third day of Maslenitsa week, "Modest Wednesday," sons-in-law visit their mothers-in-law, who try their best to appease them. Today, we're making pancakes that every son-in-law is sure to love—beer pancakes with roast beef. A practically perfect masculine combination.
pancakes with sour milk
Today is the fourth day of Maslenitsa week—"Razgulyai" (Maslenitsa Day). Doing housework in the coming days is considered bad luck. So let's cook something quick. For example, yeast-free quick-bake pancakes with sour milk. We'll fry everything up quickly and head outside to have fun!
bird cherry flour pancakes
Today is the fifth day of Maslenitsa week—"Mother-in-law's Evening." This isn't the day when the mother-in-law receives guests; on the contrary, she goes visiting. We're preparing for her arrival, simultaneously "summoning" spring not only with the scents of spring-blooming trees, but also with a special pancake recipe. Today we're making pancakes...with bird cherry flour.
pancakes with caviar and cream sauce
The penultimate day of Maslenitsa week is "Sister-in-Law's Get-Together." Traditionally, it's Women's Day. Wives host a dinner party for their husbands' relatives, and daughters-in-law are expected to invite their sisters-in-law for pancakes. Today, we'll make delicious pancakes with a creamy caviar sauce that will surely please your husband's sisters.
flambéed crepes with chocolate topping, strawberries, and brandy
The last day of Maslenitsa festivities is "Forgiveness Sunday," when the Maslenitsa effigy is ceremoniously burned. We'll be "burning" it too, but in a more sophisticated way, using a culinary technique called "flambéing." So, today we're making flambé pancakes with chocolate topping, strawberries, and brandy.
Lenten buckwheat pancakes with cabbage
Maslenitsa week is over, and Lent is upon us. For the seven weeks leading up to Easter, it's recommended to limit your intake of meat and dairy. But that doesn't mean you can forget about blini. There are countless variations of Lenten blini. Today, we're making cabbage-stuffed blini made with buckwheat flour. They're fluffy, soft, and flavorful, and they're also thinner and more tender than classic blini.
Lenten semolina pancakes
We're continuing to experiment with Lenten pancakes. Today, we've got a new recipe on the menu. No eggs or milk—we're mixing the dough with semolina. And we'll serve it with berry sauce and zest. Who would have thought Lenten pancakes could be so delicious?
Lenten spinach pancakes
We've made all sorts of pancakes during the project. Thai, French, with bird cherry flour, beer-based, and Lenten pancakes with various fillings. Our culinary journey has been rich and delicious. And we'll finish it with one more Lenten pancake recipe—spinach pancakes. Let's get cooking!