Just about every culinary culture has pancakes. You know that chain pancake place over by the highway? They claim to be 'International', but they only offer us French Toast and Belgian Waffles. What other international delights are they keeping from us?


Flinsen

Flinsen

Photo: https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-bread-on-white-surface-t6xh7hskUVA

Flinsen (alternatively pflinzen) are wheat crepes, sometimes referred to in the US as 'Russian Pancakes'. They're popular among Mennonite communities in the United States. They're probably not really Russian.

These crepes are distinguished by their simplicity: Just wheat flour, eggs, and water - plussed topped only with a sprinkling of sugar.

Flinsen Recipe (German-Style Pancakes)

Ingredients (Makes 6-8 Flinsen)

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Milk – 1½ cups
  • Eggs – 2 large
  • Sugar – 1 tablespoon (optional, for sweeter pancakes)
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Butter – 2 tablespoons (melted)
  • Vegetable oil or butter – For frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar (if using), and salt until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the flour, whisking constantly, until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
  3. Stir in the melted butter to make the batter easier to cook and prevent sticking.
  4. Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

Step 2: Cook the Flinsen

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil or butter.
  2. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan and quickly swirl to spread it into a thin, even layer.
  3. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges begin to lift and the bottom is golden brown.
  4. Flip the Flinsen and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
  5. Transfer the cooked Flinsen to a plate and cover with a clean towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Flinsen can be enjoyed sweet or savory, depending on your preference. Try serving them with:

  • Sweet toppings: powdered sugar, fruit preserves, honey, or fresh berries
  • Savory toppings: sour cream, smoked salmon, or ham and cheese
Name_ Flinsen
Origin_ 🇷🇺 Russia
Morphology_ ⟁ Crepe
Flavor_ sweet
Filling_ none
Topping_ sugar
Recipe_ Flinsen Recipe
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