Dive into Dutch delight: Mastering pancakes at home
Fluffy, delicate, and mouth-watering – poffertjes, or Dutch pancakes, are a true feast for the palate. Perfect for lazy Saturday mornings, they combine tradition and simplicity that will delight everyone.
Dutch pancakes, known as poffertjes, are a true symbol of the Kingdom of the Netherlands' cuisine. These fluffy, miniature pancakes stand out for their delicate taste and soft texture that captivate both children and adults alike.
Poffertjes - a unique delicacy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Traditionally made on a special pan with small indentations, poffertjes have become an integral part of Dutch markets and culinary festivals.
The secret of their popularity lies in the unique combination of simple ingredients: wheat and buckwheat flour, milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar and salt. Poffertjes are usually served with butter and powdered sugar, although they are increasingly seen in modern versions – with fruits, creams, or syrups.
It's worth noting that Dutch pancakes are not just a culinary tradition but also a way to celebrate moments together. Preparing and eating them among family or friends is a true feast for the senses. If you're looking for breakfast inspiration that will impress everyone – poffertjes are a perfect choice.
Recipe for poffertjes
Making Dutch pancakes at home is easier than it seems. Below you'll find a classic recipe for poffertjes that brings the taste of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 250 g (1 cup) wheat flour,
- 250 g (1 cup) buckwheat flour,
- 300 ml (1¼ cups) warm milk,
- 10 grams (1/3 oz) fresh yeast (or 1 teaspoon dry yeast),
- 1 tablespoon sugar,
- pinch of salt,
- 1 egg,
- butter (for frying),
- powdered sugar (for sprinkling).
Preparation of Dutch pancakes:
- Yeast starter: In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Set aside for 10 minutes until the yeast activates and foam appears on the surface.
- Preparing the batter: In a larger bowl, mix both types of flour and salt. Add the egg and the ready yeast starter. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a smooth, uniform batter. Let it sit in a warm place for about 30–45 minutes to double in size.
- Cooking the poffertjes: Heat a special poffertjes pan (or a regular pan if not available). Grease the indentations with a bit of butter and fill them with batter up to two-thirds full. Cook on medium heat until the bottom is golden and the top is no longer liquid. Then flip the pancakes and cook a little longer.
- Serving: Sprinkle the ready poffertjes with powdered sugar and serve with a piece of butter. You can also enhance them with your favourite toppings, such as fresh fruits, maple syrup, or whipped cream.
With this recipe for Dutch pancakes, every Saturday will be a true festival of taste. Regardless of the occasion, poffertjes are a dish that always makes an impression.