Savory Pancakes with Yogurt Sauce

These savory pancakes are a delicious twist on the traditional sweet pancakes, offering a savory filling packed with fresh vegetables and cheese. The yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch, balancing out the rich flavors of the pancakes. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these savory pancakes are sure to impress.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: Mediterranean/European

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 3 eggs

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp yeast

• 350 ml (1 1/2 cups) milk

• 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) boiling water

• 450 g (15.8 oz or 3 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 2 tomatoes, diced

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh chives, chopped

• 100 g (3.5 oz) cheese of your choice, grated

• 1 bell pepper, diced

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 200 g (7 oz or about 1 cup) plain yogurt

• Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

• Paprika to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 cucumber, grated and excess liquid squeezed out

For Cooking:

• Oil for frying

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Batter
   In a mixing bowl, beat the 3 eggs with 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp yeast. The yeast will help give the pancakes a light texture. Add the 350 ml milk and mix well to combine. Gradually whisk in the 450 g all-purpose flour, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Once the flour is fully incorporated, slowly add the 300 ml boiling water, mixing thoroughly until the batter is smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest in a warm place for 30 minutes. This resting time will allow the batter to rise and become airy.

2. Prepare the Filling
   While the batter rests, dice the 2 tomatoes, 1 bell pepper, and chop the fresh parsley and chives. Grate the 100 g cheese of your choice. You can use any cheese you prefer, but a sharp cheese like cheddar or feta works particularly well in this recipe. Set the prepared ingredients aside for later use.

3. Cook the Pancakes
   Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick frying pan over low heat. Once the pan is hot, pour a ladle of batter into the pan and spread it evenly to form a thin layer. Sprinkle the surface with the prepared vegetables and cheese. Let the pancake cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The pancake should puff up slightly as it cooks. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed to prevent sticking.

4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
   In a small bowl, combine the 200 g plain yogurt with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste. Add the chopped fresh parsley and grated cucumber, making sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the cucumber to avoid making the sauce too watery. Mix everything together until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve
   Once the pancakes are golden and crispy, serve them warm, drizzled with the refreshing yogurt sauce. Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. These savory pancakes are perfect for a light yet satisfying meal!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 8 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 6 g

• Sodium: 320 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Savory pancakes have been enjoyed in various forms around the world, especially in Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines. In these regions, pancakes are often filled with vegetables, cheese, or meat, making them a hearty and versatile meal. The yogurt sauce is a common accompaniment in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, adding a tangy contrast to the richness of the pancakes.

While sweet pancakes dominate the breakfast scene in many cultures, savory pancakes offer a satisfying alternative, perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with a wide variety of fillings, making it a popular choice for home cooks looking for something unique yet approachable.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or cheese depending on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Deliciously Savory: The combination of fresh vegetables and gooey cheese in the pancake filling creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s comforting and satisfying.

• Versatile: This dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and works well for both casual meals and special occasions.

• Refreshing Yogurt Sauce: The tangy yogurt sauce perfectly complements the savory pancakes, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Health Benefits

• Packed with vegetables: The tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumber provide a healthy dose of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.

• High in protein: Eggs and cheese are excellent sources of protein, which helps build and repair muscles.

• Probiotic yogurt: The yogurt sauce contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health and digestion.

• Low in sugar: Unlike sweet pancakes, this savory version is naturally low in sugar, making it a better option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.

Serving Suggestions

These savory pancakes pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve them with a side of grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy them with a fresh glass of fruit juice or iced tea. They are best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick snack.

Cooking Tips

• Consistency of batter: The batter should be smooth and pourable but not too runny. If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk or water to achieve the right consistency.

• Frying tips: Cook the pancakes over low heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning. It may take a little longer, but the result will be a golden, crispy pancake.

• Filling options: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Spinach, mushrooms, or ham can all be excellent additions to the filling, depending on your preferences.

• Rest the batter: Allowing the batter to rest for 30 minutes is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.

Variations to Try

• Vegan option: Use a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg substitute. Use plant-based cheese or skip it altogether.

• Spicy kick: Add a bit of chili flakes or hot sauce to the yogurt sauce for a spicy version of this dish.

• Herb variations: Swap out parsley and chives for other herbs like basil, thyme, or dill for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

These savory pancakes with yogurt sauce are a delightful and nutritious twist on the traditional pancake. Packed with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy yogurt sauce, they make for a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty treat, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

2. Can I freeze the pancakes?
   Yes, you can freeze the pancakes once cooked. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! Feta, mozzarella, or even goat cheese can be used for different flavor profiles.

4. Can I prepare the batter in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before using.

5. How can I make the pancakes crispier?
   Cook the pancakes on low heat for a longer time, allowing them to crisp up while cooking. You can also add a little more oil for extra crispiness.

6. Can I skip the yogurt sauce?
   Yes, the pancakes can be enjoyed on their own, or you can substitute the yogurt sauce with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite dressing.

7. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave.

8. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt and plant-based cheese to make it dairy-free.

9. What can I serve these pancakes with?
   These savory pancakes pair well with a simple salad, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.

10. Can I add meat to the filling?
    Yes, cooked chicken, ham, or even bacon can be added to the filling for extra protein.