At Ficelle Picarde (Picardy pancakes with mushrooms and ham) recipe Tour de France Eurosport

Ficelle Picarde – Pancakes from Picardy with Mushrooms and Ham

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction:

Ficelle Picarde is a recipe that exudes tradition and refinement, representing a delicacy from the beautiful region of Picardy. These pancakes filled with mushrooms and ham are perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. Moreover, they are an excellent way to use a new frying pan! Preparing them promises not only a delicious result but also a captivating culinary experience. So, get ready to transform simple ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients:

- 150 g flour
- 3 eggs
- 500 ml milk
- 18 thin slices of ham
- 250 g fresh mushrooms (or 400 g canned mushrooms)
- 250 g shallots (or onion)
- 50 g butter
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 100 g grated cheese
- Garlic (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Tips:

- Flour: Choose a good quality flour, preferably type 00, to achieve a fine and easy-to-cook batter.
- Mushrooms: If using fresh mushrooms, opt for champignon or wild mushrooms for a more intense flavor. If you choose canned mushrooms, ensure they are well-drained.
- Ham: You can use pork ham, but a ham salami can also add an interesting flavor.
- Cheese: A combination of grated cheese and cheese will add a delicious creamy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the pancake batter:
- In a large bowl, add the flour and a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs.
- Start mixing with a whisk, gradually incorporating the milk until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the batter rest for 20 minutes. This step is essential for fluffy and elastic pancakes.

2. Preparing the filling:
- Wash the mushrooms well, clean them, and chop them finely, along with the onion.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the onion and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onion should become translucent and caramelize slightly.
- Add the chopped mushrooms and continue cooking for another 10 minutes. If desired, add crushed garlic and parsley for extra flavor.
- Finally, add 2 tablespoons of cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the filling cool slightly.

3. Cooking the pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour a small portion of batter and swirl the pan to evenly coat the bottom. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden.
- Repeat the process until you finish all the batter. You should get about 12 pancakes.

4. Assembling the Ficelle Picarde:
- Take a pancake and place on one half a slice and half of the ham, a tablespoon and a half of the mushroom filling, and a thin slice of butter.
- Fold the pancake in half and add 3-4 slices of grated cheese on top.
- Then, fold the pancake again and place it in a buttered baking dish. Repeat with all the pancakes, overlapping them slightly.
- On top, pour a tablespoon or two of cream and sprinkle grated cheese to taste.

5. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with pancakes in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Serving:

Ficelle Picarde is a dish that is served hot, alongside a glass of red wine or a cold beer. For an extra splash of color and flavor, add a few slices of bell pepper or some fresh parsley leaves on top. This will not only add a pleasant appearance but also a fresh note.

Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and minerals, while ham provides essential proteins. Flour and milk contribute to carbohydrate and calcium intake, and cream and cheese bring healthy fats into the diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute the ingredients?
Yes, you can use other types of vegetables in the filling, such as spinach or zucchini, or you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham.

2. What other recipes can I try?
If you enjoy pancakes, try caramelized apple pancakes or Nutella pancakes for a delicious dessert!

3. How well do they keep?
Pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or in a frying pan before serving.

Conclusion:

Ficelle Picarde is more than just a pancake recipe; it is a celebration of flavors and aromas that transports you to an unforgettable culinary experience. I encourage you to start cooking and share this delicacy with family and friends. Enjoy your meal!