Tricolor pancakes

Tricolor Pancakes - A Celebration on a Plate

Every time we celebrate an important day, we want to make it special, and the recipe for tricolor pancakes is perfect for marking a symbolic occasion, such as National Day. These pancakes are not only a delicious dessert but also a tribute to the colors of our flag. Preparing them is simple and quick, and the result is not only aesthetic but also tasty. Let's discover together how to make them!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 6 pancakes (2 of each color + 1 star)

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 150 g flour
- Milk (approximately 200 ml, adjust as needed)
- Sparkling water (approximately 200 ml, adjust as needed)
- 2 teaspoons of oil (plus oil for frying)
- Food coloring: red, yellow, and blue
- Filling: caramel condensed milk (from DeLatte)

A Brief History of Pancakes:

Pancakes have a long history, being appreciated in various cultures around the world. They have evolved from simple mixtures of flour and water to sophisticated delicacies filled with various ingredients. In Romania, pancakes are often served as a dessert but can also be savory. Today, we will add a festive touch with the colors of the tricolor, transforming them into a symbol of unity and national joy.

Step-by-step Instructions:

1. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, crack the 2 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to beat them well until fluffy.

2. Adding the flour: Sift the flour over the eggs and gently mix with a spatula or whisk to avoid lumps.

3. Diluting the batter: Start adding milk and sparkling water in equal parts, stirring constantly. It is important to adjust the quantities to obtain a fluid composition, but not too runny. An effective trick is to add the milk and water gradually to control the texture.

4. Incorporating the oil: Add the 2 teaspoons of oil to the batter and mix well. The oil will help achieve fluffier pancakes and prevent them from sticking to the pan.

5. Coloring the batter: Divide the batter into 3 equal parts. In each part, add a few drops of food coloring: red in the first part, yellow in the second, and blue in the third. Mix each portion until the color is evenly distributed. Don’t be afraid to add more coloring for more intense shades!

6. Frying the pancakes: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Use a ladle to pour the colored batter into the pan, forming pancakes of the desired size. Fry each pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Continue with the other colors, ensuring the pan is lightly greased with oil for each pancake.

7. Creating the star: From the remaining batter, you can use a star-shaped cutter to cut out a special pancake that will add extra charm to the dish.

8. Filling the pancakes: After all the pancakes have been fried, fill them with caramel condensed milk. I recommend using a spoon to distribute the filling evenly, but also to avoid flooding the pancakes.

9. Serving: Arrange the pancakes on a platter, alternating the colors for an attractive visual effect. You can add a drizzle of caramel condensed milk on top for a more appetizing look.

Serving Suggestions:

These tricolor pancakes are excellent both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. Additionally, a refreshing drink like natural fruit juice or fruit tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Useful Tips:

- For perfect texture: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help better homogenize the batter.

- How to avoid sticking: Use a high-quality, non-stick pan and don’t forget to add a little oil before each pancake.

- Variations: For a healthier version, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour. You can also experiment with fillings, using mascarpone, berries, or melted chocolate.

Nutritional Information:

A tricolor pancake contains approximately 150 calories, depending on size and filling. It can be a delicious and healthy snack, rich in protein from the eggs and calcium from the milk.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use plant-based milk instead of cow's milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but keep in mind that the flavors may vary.

2. What other fillings can I use?
Try fruit jams, cream cheese, or even a chocolate filling for a decadent option.

3. How can I store the pancakes?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the pan.

I hope this tricolor pancake recipe inspires you to celebrate important moments in your life with taste and color. Happy National Day to all Romanians! Let’s enjoy traditional delicacies together!