Today is Pancake Tuesday, a day that is traditionally celebrated in Ireland by eating pancakes. It marks the last day before Lent which was a time of abstinence and of giving certain foods up in the religious calendar. So Pancake or Shrove Tuesday was the last chance to indulge and to use up the foods that weren’t permitted during Lent. Pancakes are eaten on this day because they contain fat, butter and eggs, all of which were not eaten at this time. The type of pancake made here in Ireland is different to the American style pancake and is more akin to the French crepe.
To serve, I adore mine sprinkled with caster sugar & lemon juice. However, today I ate them with Nutella chocolate spread and sliced banana which was simply scrumptious!
Basic Pancake Recipie (makes 12)
110g Flour
Pinch Salt
Pinch Sugar
1/2 Pint Full Fat Milk
2 Eggs
25g Butter (or some cooking oil) to fry
Method:
Step 1 – Mix flour, salt and sugar
Step 2 – Whisk in the eggs and milk
(* Best at this stage to set aside in fridge for 30 minutes)
Step 3 – Add butter or oil to a hot frying pan. When heated, drain excess oil off into a cup or pat dry with kitchen paper
Step 4 – Pour or ladle into the pan a thinish layer of the mix
Step 5 – Turn or flip over once cooked on one side
To Serve:
Sprinkle with caster sugar and lemon juice. Alternatively, eat with Nutella chocolate spread and sliced banana or whichever your personal preference!