Morning Stars (banana pancakes)

Morning Stars: Banana Pancakes

Who wouldn't want to start the day with a delicious and nutritious meal? Mornings are a special time, and nothing compares to the aroma and flavor of banana pancakes. These "morning stars" are not only easy to prepare but also an excellent choice for the whole family. Here’s a captivating and detailed recipe that will help you achieve fluffy, flavorful, and energizing pancakes!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (approximately 8 pancakes)

Ingredients

To make the best banana pancakes, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 fresh egg
- ½ cup of milk (preferably whole for a richer taste)
- 1 cup of self-rising flour (or regular flour + 1 teaspoon of baking powder)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla sugar (optional, but recommended for flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- Juice from ½ orange (freshly squeezed for a refreshing taste)
- 1 large banana, sliced
- Orange slices for decoration
- Caramel syrup or honey (optional, for serving)

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Non-stick frying pan
- Spatula
- Whisk or fork

Preparing the pancakes

1. Preparing the batter
In a large bowl, beat the egg with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add the orange juice and milk, continuing to mix. It is important to use fresh ingredients, as they influence the texture and taste of the pancakes.

2. Incorporate the dry ingredients
In the same bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones, being careful not to over-mix. The batter should be slightly thicker than pancake batter but not too dense. A well-balanced mixture will lead to fluffy and airy pancakes.

3. Heating the pan
Place the frying pan over medium heat and add a little butter or oil to prevent sticking. Wait a few minutes until the pan is well heated, then slightly reduce the temperature to avoid burning the pancakes.

4. Pouring the batter
Use a ladle to pour the batter into the pan, forming circles about 10 cm in diameter. Add a few banana slices on top of the batter, ensuring they are well secured.

5. Cooking the pancakes
Watch the pancakes closely; when you start to see small bubbles forming on the surface, it’s time to flip them. Use a spatula to carefully turn them and let them brown on the other side for 1-2 minutes.

6. Serving
Remove the pancakes from the pan and place them on a plate. You can serve them immediately, decorated with orange slices and drizzled with caramel syrup or honey. A delicious option is to add fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Practical tips

- Flour: If using regular flour, make sure to add baking powder; otherwise, the pancakes will not rise properly.
- Bananas: Choose well-ripened bananas, as they will enrich the batter with sweetness and flavor.
- Flavors: Experiment with adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a note of warmth and complexity in taste.
- Cooking: Ensure that the pan is not too hot, as the pancakes can burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.

Nutritional benefits

This banana pancake recipe provides an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and potassium, thanks to the bananas. Additionally, the milk provides necessary proteins, and the orange juice adds vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Variations

If you want to explore and vary the recipe, here are a few suggestions:

- Chocolate pancakes: Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a decadent version.
- Nut pancakes: Incorporate chopped nuts or almonds into the batter for an extra crunch.
- Vegan pancakes: Replace the egg with ¼ cup of banana puree or ½ cup of applesauce and use plant-based milk to create a delicious vegan version.

Frequently asked questions

- Why don't the pancakes cook evenly?
Make sure the pan is at the right temperature and that you follow the cooking time for each side.

- Can I store the pancakes?
Yes, they can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and for quick serving, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the pan.

- What can I serve with the pancakes?
These pancakes are delicious alongside a fresh smoothie, coffee, or tea. They can also be served as dessert with a scoop of ice cream.

Regardless of the occasion, banana pancakes are an excellent choice. Whether you prepare them for a relaxing weekend or for a quick breakfast during the week, these "morning stars" will bring a smile to your face and a perfect start to your day! Experiment and enjoy every bite!