Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes

Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Norway

Region / culture: Norway | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes are a delightful and traditional recipe passed down through generations. These thin, crepe-like pancakes are a staple in Norwegian cuisine and offer a delicious alternative to the thicker, fluffier American pancakes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, these pancakes are versatile and can be served with a variety of toppings.

History

The recipe for Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes has its roots in Norway, where pancakes, or "pannekaker," have been a beloved dish for centuries. Traditionally, these pancakes were made with simple ingredients that would have been readily available on a Norwegian farm: eggs, milk, flour, and butter. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each Bestemor (grandmother) adding her own touch to the classic dish.

Ingredients

2 eggs
2 cups milk
2 tbsp melted butter
1 cup flour

How to prepare

Beat the eggs.
Add the milk and melted butter and mix well.
Slowly incorporate the flour into the mixture.
Pour the batter onto the pan to form a layer.
Flip the pancake over and cook until done.
Spread butter on the pancake and drizzle with maple syrup.

Variations

To add a twist to the traditional recipe, you can incorporate different flavors into the batter. Vanilla extract, lemon zest, or cardamom can add a delightful aroma and taste. For a heartier pancake, mix in some finely chopped nuts or seeds.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure your pan is at the right temperature before pouring in the batter. A medium heat works best. If the pan is too hot, the pancakes will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw in the middle. Also, using a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet can help prevent sticking. For thinner pancakes, you can add a little more milk to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are traditionally served with butter and maple syrup, but they can also be enjoyed with a variety of toppings. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar are delicious options. For a savory twist, try them with smoked salmon and a dollop of sour cream.

Cooking Techniques

The key to perfect Norwegian Pancakes is in the technique. Pour the batter into the center of the pan and then tilt the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter thinly and evenly. This ensures a delicate, crepe-like texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Gluten-free flour can be used in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter for Norwegian Pancakes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a smoother batter.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pancakes folded into quarters, or rolled up with your favorite fillings inside. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar and some fresh berries for a visually appealing and delicious presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a complete brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes contains approximately 250 calories. This makes them a relatively light option, especially when served with healthy toppings like fresh fruit.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the flour, which provides the body with energy.

Fats

The pancakes contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the butter used in the batter and for cooking. Using unsalted butter can help control the sodium content, and substituting with a low-fat butter alternative can reduce the fat content if desired.

Proteins

Each serving of these pancakes provides around 8 grams of protein, coming from the eggs and milk. This makes them a satisfying option that can help keep you full throughout the morning.

Vitamins and minerals

These pancakes are a good source of calcium from the milk, as well as iron from the flour. They also contain small amounts of vitamin A and D, thanks to the eggs and milk.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are eggs, milk, and gluten. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or look for suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They can be a nutritious part of a balanced diet when served with healthy toppings and in moderation.

Summary

Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes are a timeless and versatile dish that brings a taste of Norway to your table. Whether you're enjoying them for a special breakfast or a cozy dinner, these pancakes are sure to delight with their light texture and delicious flavor. With the ability to customize toppings and fillings, they can be tailored to suit any taste preference.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was handed down to me by my own Bestemor, my Norwegian grandmother, who was a master in the kitchen. The recipe for Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes had been in our family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter with love and care.

I remember the day she taught me how to make them like it was yesterday. I was just a young girl, eager to learn the secrets of her delicious cooking. Bestemor stood at the stove, flipping the pancakes with ease and grace. Her hands moved with precision, her eyes focused on the task at hand.

She smiled at me, a twinkle in her eye, as she handed me the recipe card. "This is a special recipe," she said, her voice soft and full of wisdom. "It has been in our family for centuries. You must treat it with respect and care."

I nodded, taking the card from her with reverence. I studied it carefully, noting the ingredients and instructions. It seemed simple enough, but I knew that the true magic lay in the hands of the cook.

Bestemor guided me through each step, showing me how to mix the batter just right and how to cook the pancakes to perfection. She taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail, reminding me that good cooking was an art form that required practice and dedication.

As we sat down to eat the pancakes, hot and steaming from the pan, I took my first bite and felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. The flavors were familiar and comforting, reminding me of lazy Sunday mornings spent in Bestemor's kitchen.

From that day on, I made Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes whenever I could, perfecting my technique and adding my own personal touch to the recipe. I experimented with different fillings and toppings, always striving to create the perfect pancake just like Bestemor.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes with love and care. It became a staple in our household, a dish that brought us together and created lasting memories.

As I grew older, I realized that the true magic of Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes lay not in the recipe itself, but in the memories and traditions that it represented. It was a connection to my heritage, a link to the past that would always remain close to my heart.

And so, whenever I make Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes, I do so with a sense of gratitude and reverence for the woman who taught me how to cook with love and passion. Each pancake is a tribute to her legacy, a reminder of the bonds that tie us together as a family.

As I sit down to enjoy a stack of hot, fluffy pancakes, I can almost hear Bestemor's laughter in the air and feel her presence in the room. It is a comforting feeling, a reminder that she will always be with me, guiding me through life's ups and downs with her wisdom and love.

And so, I will continue to make Bestemor's Norwegian Pancakes for years to come, passing on the tradition to future generations and keeping her memory alive in my heart. For in the kitchen, surrounded by the aromas and flavors of her cherished recipe, I am truly home.