The Tuesday before Lent is known as Shrove Tuesday. The day is also known as Pancake Day and is a holiday that you don’t need to be religious to enjoy celebrating. The tradition arose from the need to use up perishible ingredients like butter, milk and eggs that were not supposed to be eaten during the period of Lent, and pancakes seemed like a great way to use them up quickly. From there, a delicious tradition was born that more people get behind every year. I think of it as a good excuse to whip up some pancakes on a weekday – and I often serve them for dinner, not breakfast, so I can take my time with them – and always give the holiday a nod when it comes around. Here are a handful of fantastic pancake recipes to kick off your own Pancake Day traditions!
Buttermilk Chocolate Chunk Pancakes – These will make you feel like a kid again, as the classic pancake batter is loaded with rich chocolate chunks. Use a good quality dark chocolate for best – and most indulgent – results!
Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancakes – These pancakes are completely wheat-free and will let you get your pancake fix regardless of dietary restrictions. They’re light, fluffy and flavorful. Don’t forget the maple syrup, which is naturally gf.
French Ham, Cheese and Egg Crepes – These crepes are inspired by ones I ate on a trip to Paris a few years ago. The simple crepes are loaded with cheese, ham and a whole egg. It’s a meal in and of itself and the perfect pancake for people who think pancakes can’t be savory.
Whole Grain Banana Nut Pancakes – These wonderful pancakes are as hearty as they are flavorful. Packed with fresh bananas and chopped nuts, they have a lot going on and will get your day off on the right foot. They’re delicious with maple syrup, but also work well with a generous dusting of confectioners’ sugar if you want to keep it simple.
Pancake Cups – These individual pancake cups are almost too cute to eat. Unlike other pancakes, which are usually stacked up, these mini Dutch babies are meant to be filled up with berries, syrup and other goodies, not stacked one on top of the other. They’re easy to make, too, and a great choice for entertaining.
What do you think?