These soft and fluffy Turkish pancakes are the perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch table. Inspired by a Turkish chef’s technique, this recipe delivers pancakes that are light, airy, and packed with flavor. The addition of fresh dill gives them a unique twist, and they can be customized with your favorite spices or enjoyed with an egg on top for a hearty meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the best pancakes that will impress your family and friends!
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.
These soft and fluffy Turkish pancakes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their light texture, unique flavor from fresh dill, and versatility, they are sure to become a staple in your breakfast or brunch repertoire. Enjoy the delightful taste of these pancakes with your favorite toppings or as is, straight from the pan!
