Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks Recipe | Delicious Mexican-inspired dish

Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks

Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks Recipe | Delicious Mexican-inspired dish
Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks
Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks

Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks are a delightful twist on the traditional pancake, incorporating the rich, smoky flavor of ancho chili powder and the sweet, sharp bite of red onion. This recipe transforms a classic breakfast item into a savory dish that can be enjoyed at any meal. Perfect for those who love a little spice in their life, these flapjacks are sure to impress with their unique flavor profile and hearty texture.

History

The concept of savory pancakes has roots in many cultures around the world, but the Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks are a modern creation that combines elements of Mexican and American cuisine. Ancho chili, a dried poblano pepper, is a staple in Mexican cooking, known for its deep, smoky flavor. The use of ancho powder in these flapjacks brings a traditional Mexican ingredient into an American breakfast classic, creating a fusion dish that celebrates the flavors of both cultures.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine onions, ancho powder, cumin, flour, cornmeal, salt, lemon juice, and sugar.
  2. Stir well to combine.
  3. Add beer, stirring to form a pancake-thin batter.
  4. Coat a griddle with a little oil and heat over medium heat.
  5. Pour 0.25 cup of batter out at a time to form cakes, flattening if required.
  6. Cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Flip cakes and continue cooking until the second side is browned.
  8. Reserve cakes on a warmed plate.
  9. Serve with chili.
  10. Enjoy.

Variations

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour and beer with gluten-free alternatives. To add more vegetables, consider incorporating finely chopped spinach or kale into the batter. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of ancho powder.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure your griddle or pan is at the right temperature before adding the batter. A medium heat is ideal to cook the flapjacks thoroughly without burning them. If the batter seems too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more beer until you reach the desired thickness. To achieve a uniform size, use a measuring cup to pour the batter onto the griddle.

Serving Suggestions

These flapjacks are versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For breakfast, top them with a fried egg and a dollop of sour cream. For lunch or dinner, serve alongside grilled chicken or steak and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the preparation of the batter and the cooking of the flapjacks to achieve a perfect golden brown color without burning. Ensuring the batter is of the right consistency and the griddle is properly heated are crucial steps.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ancho powder is not available, chipotle powder can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Beer can be replaced with milk or a milk alternative for a non-alcoholic version. For a sweeter variation, swap the red onion for apple or pear slices.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter for Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and can save time during meal preparation.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these flapjacks stacked high with a side of lime wedges for added zest. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks with a light, crisp beer or a tangy margarita to complement the smoky, spicy flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a lime-infused sparkling water would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover flapjacks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively light option that can fit into a balanced diet, especially when served with healthy sides.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are flour and cornmeal, which provide the body with energy. The sugar and beer also contribute to the carbohydrate content.

Fats

These flapjacks contain a moderate amount of fat, approximately 5 grams per serving, mainly from the oil used to coat the griddle. Using a high-quality oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or canola oil, can add healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks provides about 6 grams of protein, coming from the flour and cornmeal. While not high in protein, these flapjacks can be paired with protein-rich sides or toppings to create a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and various B vitamins from the flour and cornmeal. The ancho powder also contributes a small amount of vitamin A and iron.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are gluten (from the flour) and potentially gluten from the beer, depending on the brand used. Individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should use gluten-free flour and beer.

Summary

Overall, Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks are a moderately nutritious option that provides energy from carbohydrates, a small amount of healthy fats, and a few grams of protein. They also offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, making them a flavorful addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional pancakes, blending the smoky taste of ancho chili with the sweetness of red onion. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, serving as a savory option for any meal of the day. With tips for making ahead and suggestions for serving, these flapjacks are sure to become a favorite for those looking to spice up their meal routine.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was always full of surprises when it came to cooking, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I could smell the delicious aroma of something savory and spicy wafting through the air. Maria greeted me with a smile and handed me a plate of what looked like thick, golden pancakes topped with a vibrant red onion mixture.

"Try one of these Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks," Maria said, her eyes shining with excitement.

I took a bite and was instantly blown away by the burst of flavors in my mouth. The subtle heat from the ancho chilies paired perfectly with the sweetness of the red onions, creating a truly unique and delicious dish. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these flapjacks myself.

Maria saw the look of determination in my eyes and chuckled. "I'll teach you how to make them, but you have to promise to keep this recipe a secret," she said with a wink.

And so, Maria and I spent the entire afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, stirring, and flipping flapjacks until we had perfected the recipe. I scribbled down every step and ingredient in my trusty old recipe book, making sure to capture every detail so I could recreate this magical dish at home.

Over the years, I continued to make these Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. But I always kept my promise to Maria and never revealed the secret behind these delicious flapjacks.

As time passed, I perfected the recipe even further, adding my own twist with a dash of cumin and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Each time I made these flapjacks, they brought back memories of that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen, where I first discovered the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with loved ones.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the wonderful friends and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. Each bite of these savory, spicy flapjacks is a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

I hope that one day, my grandchildren will carry on the tradition of making these Ancho-Red Onion Flapjacks, sharing the recipe with their own friends and family while creating new memories and stories to cherish for years to come. Cooking is not just about following a recipe – it's about creating moments of joy, love, and connection that will last a lifetime.

Categories

| Cornmeal Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Pancake Recipes | Recipes Using Beer | Red Chile Powder Recipes | Red Onion Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes | World Recipes |

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