Pancakes with cottage cheese and fresh dill

Cottage cheese and dill pancakes are a delicacy that combines the simple flavor of the ingredients with a touch of culinary creativity. This recipe is perfect for breakfasts, quick lunches, or even a light dinner. Let’s discover together the steps to prepare these delicious pancakes, along with some useful tips and interesting variations.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10-12 pancakes

Ingredients

For the pancake batter:
- 4 eggs
- 1.5 liters of milk
- 700 g of flour (approximately, depending on desired consistency)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of oil (for cooking, but can also be used at the beginning)

For the filling:
- 500 g of fresh cottage cheese
- 2 egg yolks
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar
- Finely chopped fresh dill (to taste)

Recipe History

Pancakes have a fascinating history, being prepared in various forms and variations around the world. In many cultures, they symbolize joy and conviviality. The combination of cottage cheese and dill is a tradition that reflects the richness of local ingredients, offering a unique and comforting taste. This recipe blends tradition with innovation, transforming a simple dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Step by step: Preparing the pancakes

1. Preparing the batter:
- In a large bowl, crack the 4 eggs and add the vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
- Start gradually adding the milk while continuing to stir. It’s important to add the milk gradually to avoid lumps.
- Add the flour gradually, mixing continuously. The mixture should be fluid but not overly liquid. If you have a mixer, it can be very helpful to achieve a perfect texture.
- Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes. This will help achieve fluffier pancakes as the flour absorbs moisture.

2. Baking the pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. If using a Teflon pan, you don’t need to add oil after the first pancake, but if using a regular pan, add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour a ladle of batter into the skillet, tilting it to evenly cover the bottom. Cook the pancake for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden.
- Repeat the process until you finish all the batter. You will get about 10-12 pancakes, depending on the desired thickness.

Preparing the filling

1. Mixing the ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine the fresh cottage cheese with the egg yolks, chopped dill, and sugar. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.
- Adjust the taste with salt and pepper, if desired. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add more sugar.

2. Filling the pancakes:
- Take a pancake and add a tablespoon of the cottage cheese filling to one half of the pancake. Fold the pancake in half or roll it up, depending on your preference.
- Repeat the process with all the pancakes.

Serving and variations

These cottage cheese and dill pancakes can be served warm, plain, or with various toppings. Here are some suggestions:

- Strawberry or raspberry jam: A perfect combination of sweet and savory.
- Nutella: For those who prefer a more decadent taste.
- Grated cheese: A savory and delicious option.

If you want to explore variations, you can replace the cottage cheese with ricotta or farmer's cheese, and the dill can be replaced with spinach or other greens, according to your preferences.

Useful tips

- For fluffier pancakes: Let the batter rest; this will help the flour absorb the liquid better.
- Experiment with other flavors: You can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the filling for a more sophisticated taste.
- Checking the consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk to achieve a fluid consistency.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I make the pancakes healthier?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free alternatives to make the recipe healthier.

2. How can I store the pancakes?
Pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or oven.

3. Can I freeze the pancakes?
Absolutely! Wrap each pancake in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer. They can be easily thawed and reheated.

Nutritional benefits: These pancakes are rich in protein due to the eggs and cottage cheese, providing a good supply of calcium and vitamins. Dill, besides its delicious taste, also brings digestive benefits.

Now that you know all the secrets of preparing cottage cheese and dill pancakes, all that’s left is to get cooking! With every bite, you will feel the flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy your meal!