Hardly there is anybody who does not like indulging in pancakes. Pancakes have become a popular breakfast staple across the world. There’s an incredible comfort about waking up in the morning with the aroma of pancakes sizzling on the griddle. With the golden-brown exterior and fluffy interior, pancakes can be enjoyed with a drizzle of maple syrup, adorned with fresh berries, or stacked with layers of whipped cream and chocolate chips.
Nothing can be better than the freshly made pancakes at home. Making pancakes at home helps to adjust the ingredients better according to your preferences. Besides, you can make several versions of pancakes, ranging from sweet to savoury. However, the traditional version followed commonly is the American one. It is a fun and rewarding experience to make pancakes at home.
However, achieving that perfect golden-brown colour and airy consistency can sometimes be tricky. Thus, this article will provide you with certain tips and tricks that will help you to achieve perfect pancakes in your own kitchen. Take a look.
- Preheat Your Pan Correctly
The first and foremost step to achieve a perfect pancake is to preheat the pan correctly. It is advisable that you use a non-stick griddle or tawa and heat it over medium-low flame. If you keep the flame too high, it may result in burnt pancakes on the exterior with raw batter on the inside. You can test the pan’s readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water on it – if you see it dance and evaporate, it means that the pan is ready.
- Perfect Batter Consistency
It is crucial to keep the consistency of the pancake batter correct. The batter should be smooth and pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape on the pan. Mix the batter thoroughly until well combined. However, note that overmixing can make the pancakes tough. If you see that the batter is too thick, add a splash of water. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add a bit more flour.
- Allow The Batter To Rest
Once the batter is ready, allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This gives the flour time to hydrate and allows any bubble to settle that is created during the mixing process. This helps to make your pancakes fluffier and more tender.
- Watch For Bubbles
After you pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan, check out the formation of bubbles on the surface. When bubbles start to appear and pop, it’s time to flip the pancake. The whole process usually takes around 2-3 minutes. With the help of a spatula, lift the edges of the pancakes slightly and check for doneness as it should be golden brown.
- Flip With Confidence
When it’s time to flip, do it with confidence, but make sure it’s gentle. To perform this, slide a spatula underneath the pancake and quickly flip it over in one smooth motion. Ensure not to flip multiple times as it can deflate the pancake and affect its texture. Once flipped, allow the pancake to cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on the other side.
- Keep Them Warm
If you’re cooking pancakes in multiple batches, keep them warm until serving to make sure they are enjoyed at their best. You can do this by placing cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a preheated oven set at a low temperature of around 90°C. Cover them with a clean towel to prevent them from drying out while they wait.