Taste the past: 160‑year-old pancake recipe revealed
Do you dream of pancakes that melt in your mouth and have an exceptionally delicate texture? Let's turn to a recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to amaze with its flavor. We're talking about the pancake recipe from 1860, taken from the iconic cookbook by Lucyna Ćwierczakiewiczowa, "365 Dinners".
The cuisine of the 19th century is rich in recipes that continue to inspire and amaze to this day. Among them, the 1860 pancakes featured in Lucyna Ćwierczakiewiczowa's "365 Dinners" hold a special place. This simple yet exceptional recipe proves that the secret to perfect pancakes lies in the details and the right choice of ingredients. Discover the secret of a recipe that has delighted enthusiasts of traditional Polish cuisine for 160 years.
Pancakes from 1860 – the secret is clarified butter
Lucyna Ćwierczakiewiczowa pioneered Polish culinary literature, and her book remains a symbol of craft and taste today. The pancake recipe from 1860, found in her work, differs from contemporary versions with one key addition: clarified butter. This gives the pancakes a subtle, buttery aroma, golden color, and delicate, crispy crust.
Interestingly, clarified butter is used not only for frying but also as an ingredient in the batter. This method melts perfectly fluffy pancakes in your mouth while remaining delicate inside.
A key step in preparation is beating the egg whites into stiff peaks. This step makes these pancakes exceptionally fluffy, reminiscent of the texture of omelets.
How to prepare pancakes from 1860? Step-by-step recipe
Do you want to prepare these exceptional pancakes and taste the flavors of old times? You will need a few essential ingredients that you can find in most kitchens. Here’s what you need:
- 9 oz all-purpose flour,
- 1 cup milk,
- 4 eggs,
- 1 oz clarified butter,
- a pinch of salt.
Instructions:
- Melt the clarified butter in a saucepan and set it aside to cool.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks and beat the whites into stiff peaks.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, milk, egg yolks, and cooled clarified butter. Using a spatula, gently fold in the beaten egg whites until combined.
- Heat a pan and cook the pancakes until golden on both sides.
The 160-year-old recipe's pancakes can be served sweet or savory. Try them with your favorite jam, fresh fruits, or whipped cream to create a dessert that will delight everyone. If you prefer savory flavors, serve them with cheese, spinach, or roasted vegetable fillings. The possibilities are endless!
