Ingredients
For the Crepes:
- 3 chicken eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 500 ml milk (300 ml + 200 ml, divided)
- 200 grams flour
- 30 grams butter, melted
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 60 grams cheese, grated (use your favorite, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
For Frying:
Steps to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add a pinch of salt. Whisk until the eggs are smooth and slightly frothy.
- Gradually add 300 ml of milk while continuing to whisk.
- Sift in the flour a little at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the melted butter and the remaining 200 ml of milk. Whisk until the batter is smooth and of a thin, pourable consistency.
Step 2: Add Dill and Cheese
- Stir in the chopped fresh dill and half of the grated cheese into the batter. This will infuse the crepes with flavor while keeping them light and airy.
Step 3: Preheat the Pan
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with olive oil. Use a paper towel to wipe off any excess oil for a smooth, even cooking surface.
Step 4: Cook the Crepes
- Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan and tilt the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter evenly across the surface.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the underside is golden.
- Flip the crepe using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, lightly greasing the pan as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Stack the cooked crepes on a plate, sprinkling the remaining grated cheese between layers while they’re still warm to allow it to melt.
- Serve warm as they are or roll them up with your favorite fillings for a heartier option.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 6)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 12%
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Savory Dill and Cheese Crepes are a timeless recipe because they embody the versatility and simplicity of home cooking. Crepes have been enjoyed for centuries across cultures, from their French origins to similar dishes like blini in Eastern Europe or dosa in South Asia.
This recipe adapts the classic crepe into a savory version that is perfect for modern tastes. The addition of dill, a fresh herb with a mild anise-like flavor, adds a touch of sophistication, while the melted cheese gives a comforting richness. It’s a dish that feels fancy yet is simple enough to prepare on a busy weekday.
Moreover, this dish’s ability to pair with a wide variety of accompaniments—from roasted vegetables to cured meats or even a dollop of sour cream—makes it endlessly adaptable to different palates and dietary preferences.
FAQs
1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container, and whisk it before using as the ingredients may settle.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the crepes will have a denser texture and nuttier flavor. To maintain a light consistency, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
3. What kind of cheese works best?
This recipe works well with any cheese that melts smoothly. Cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère are all great options.
4. Can I make these crepes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Add a pinch of xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t already contain it for better texture.
5. How do I reheat leftover crepes?
Simply heat them in a non-stick pan over low heat or microwave them for 15-20 seconds.
Tips for Making the Perfect Crepes
- Consistency is Key: The batter should have the consistency of heavy cream. Adjust with a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the gluten to relax, making the crepes tender.
- Use the Right Pan: A good-quality non-stick pan or crepe pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Control the Heat: Medium heat is ideal. Too high, and the crepes will brown too quickly; too low, and they won’t cook evenly.
- Grease Sparingly: Wipe the pan with a paper towel dipped in oil to avoid greasy crepes.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover crepes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Layer parchment paper between crepes to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Stack crepes with parchment paper between each one and freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Savory Dill and Cheese Crepes are more than just a dish—they’re a culinary experience. The blend of simple ingredients like eggs, milk, and flour with fresh dill and melted cheese creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refined.
This recipe’s beauty lies in its adaptability. You can serve the crepes plain, or fill them with smoked salmon, sautéed vegetables, or even scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch option. Their light, tender texture and balanced flavors make them ideal for any occasion, from casual family meals to elegant gatherings.
The timeless appeal of crepes lies in their ability to bring people together. Whether you’re flipping crepes with loved ones on a lazy Sunday morning or enjoying them as a cozy dinner on a weeknight, this recipe promises to deliver not just nourishment but also joy and connection.
So grab your whisk, heat up your pan, and let the magic of crepes bring a little warmth and sophistication to your table. Bon appétit!