Naleśniki
Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pfannkuchen_mit_Zucker.jpg
Naleśniki are thin, crepe-like pancakes that are a staple of Polish cuisine. Made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt, these pancakes are cooked in a hot, lightly greased pan until golden and slightly crispy around the edges. Naleśniki are similar to French crepes but tend to be slightly thicker and are often enjoyed both sweet and savory.
Sweet versions of Naleśniki are commonly filled with ingredients like sweetened farmer’s cheese, fruit preserves, or Nutella, and are often dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a bit of honey or chocolate sauce. Savory varieties might include fillings such as mushrooms, meat, or spinach, and can be topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of herbs.
Naleśniki are versatile and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dessert. In Poland, they are a beloved comfort food, frequently prepared at home and enjoyed by families as part of a hearty, satisfying meal. Their adaptability and simplicity make them a cherished dish in Polish kitchens.
Naleśniki Recipe (Polish Crepes)
Ingredients (Makes about 10 Crepes)
For the Batter:
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup
- Milk – 1 cup
- Water – ½ cup (sparkling water for a lighter texture)
- Eggs – 2 large
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Sugar – 1 tablespoon (optional, for sweet crepes)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons (melted)
- Vegetable oil or butter – For greasing the pan
Optional Fillings:
- Sweet: jam, Nutella, fresh fruits, or sweetened ricotta
- Savory: sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or spinach
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, water, eggs, salt, and sugar (if using) until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter for a richer flavor and to prevent sticking.
- Let the batter rest for 20-30 minutes to ensure a smooth texture.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
- Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.
- Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan, swirling to coat the bottom evenly with a thin layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift slightly and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute on the other side.
- Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes as you go.
Step 3: Fill and Serve
- Spread your desired filling (sweet or savory) onto each crepe and fold into quarters or roll into a cylinder.
- Serve immediately, garnished with powdered sugar, sour cream, or fresh herbs, depending on the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Naleśniki are versatile and can be enjoyed as a sweet dessert, a savory meal, or even a snack. Popular combinations include:
- Sweetened cheese filling with powdered sugar
- Sautéed mushrooms and melted cheese
- Jam or fresh fruit with whipped cream
| Name_ | Naleśniki |
|---|---|
| Origin_ | 🇵🇱 Poland |
| Morphology_ | ⟁ Crepe |
| Flavor_ | sweet, savory |
| Filling_ | cheese |
| Topping_ | cheese? |
| Recipe_ | Naleśniki Recipe |
| « All Pancakes_ | |