Syrniki
Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syrniki#/media/File:Syrniki.jpg
Ukrainian syrniki are traditional cheese pancakes made from a simple mixture of farmer’s cheese (tvorog), eggs, flour, and a bit of sugar. These are so cheese-heavy and grain-light that I think they stretch our definition of pancake - but just look at them! The dough is formed into small, thick patties and fried in oil or butter until golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and tender on the inside. Syrniki are typically lightly sweetened and often served as a breakfast dish or dessert, though they can also be made savory with the omission of sugar.
Syrniki are commonly enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, honey, jam, or fresh fruit. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for versatility, and syrniki can be adapted to different tastes by adding raisins, vanilla, or other flavorings to the batter. This dish is a beloved part of Ukrainian cuisine and is enjoyed across Eastern Europe, often as a comforting, home-cooked meal.
Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cottage Cheese Pancakes)
Ingredients (Makes about 10 Syrniki)
- Cottage cheese or farmer's cheese – 1½ cups (drained if watery)
- Eggs – 1 large
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – ½ cup (plus extra for dusting)
- Salt – A pinch
- Vegetable oil or butter – For frying
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jam, honey, or fresh fruit
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the Syrniki
- Dust your hands and a work surface with flour. Divide the dough into 10 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a thick patty, about ½ inch thick.
- Lightly coat each patty with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Fry the Syrniki
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil or butter.
- Place the syrniki in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the syrniki warm with your choice of toppings, such as sour cream, jam, honey, or fresh fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Syrniki are delicious as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. Customize them with toppings to suit your taste.
| Name_ | Syrniki |
|---|---|
| Origin_ | 🇺🇦 Ukraine |
| Morphology_ | ☰ flat |
| Flavor_ | sweet |
| Filling_ | raisins, cheese |
| Topping_ | cream, fruit |
| Recipe_ | Syrniki Recipe |
| « All Pancakes_ | |