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?


Oladyi

Oladyi

Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:ОладкиУкраїнські.jpg

Oladyi are traditional Russian pancakes made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk or kefir, and a leavening agent like baking soda or yeast. The batter is spooned into a hot pan, forming small, thick pancakes that are fried until golden brown and fluffy. Unlike crepes, oladyi are more compact and have a soft, airy texture on the inside with a slight crisp on the outside.

These pancakes are typically served as a breakfast dish or snack and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savory. Common accompaniments include sour cream, jam, honey, or even fresh berries. Oladyi are a staple of Russian home cooking, known for their simplicity and versatility, making them a comforting dish that can be easily prepared and enjoyed at any time of day.

Imagine: pancakes with sour cream and caviar!

Oladyi Recipe (Traditional Russian Pancakes)

Ingredients (Makes about 12 Oladyi)

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Kefir or buttermilk – 1 cup
  • Egg – 1 large
  • Sugar – 2 tablespoons
  • Baking soda – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Vegetable oil or butter – For frying
  • Optional toppings: Sour cream, jam, honey, or powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the kefir or buttermilk, egg, sugar, and salt until well combined.
  2. Sift the flour into the bowl and stir gently to combine.
  3. Add the baking soda and mix briefly. The batter will be thick and bubbly—avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil or butter.

Step 3: Cook the Oladyi

  1. Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the skillet, shaping them into small, round pancakes.
  2. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Transfer the cooked Oladyi to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
  4. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil or butter as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Oladyi are best served warm, topped with your favorite accompaniments. Popular choices include:

  • Sour cream
  • Jam or fruit preserves
  • Honey
  • Powdered sugar
Name_ Oladyi
Origin_ 🇷🇺 Russia
Morphology_ ☰ flat
Flavor_ sweet
Filling_ none
Topping_ cream, fruit, honey
Recipe_ Oladyi Recipe
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