Savory Vegetable and Cheese Pancakes

These Savory Vegetable and Cheese Pancakes are a delicious twist on traditional pancakes, incorporating fresh vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes for a wholesome and filling meal. These fluffy and savory pancakes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The addition of yeast gives them a slight rise, making them soft and pillowy. The cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, making each bite indulgent. These pancakes are easy to make and can be enjoyed with a side salad, yogurt dip, or on their own. Let’s get started on making these flavorful pancakes!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1.5 cups (250 ml) milk
  • 1.5 cups (or glasses) water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (20 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon yeast (10 grams)
  • 3.5 cups flour (+-400 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (10 grams)
  • 1 green or red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 tomato (diced)
  • 1 potato (peeled and grated)
  • 120 grams cheese (grated, use cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite type)

Steps to Make It:

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
    • In a small bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step helps activate the yeast and gives the pancakes a light and fluffy texture.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and water until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and uniform.
  3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the flour, salt, and the activated yeast mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir the mixture well until there are no lumps and the batter is smooth. You can use a whisk or a hand mixer if necessary.
  4. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Dice the green or red bell pepper and tomato. Peel and grate the potato. Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped or grated so they can cook evenly within the batter.
  5. Incorporate the Vegetables and Cheese:
    • Gently fold in the diced bell pepper, tomato, grated potato, and cheese into the pancake batter. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Let the Batter Rest:
    • Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the batter rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes. This resting time allows the yeast to activate and gives the batter a slight rise, making the pancakes fluffier.
  7. Cook the Pancakes:
    • Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan.
    • Pour a ladle of batter onto the skillet, spreading it out slightly to form a round pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat the process until all the batter is used up.
  8. Serve:
    • Once all the pancakes are ready, serve them hot. You can enjoy them on their own or with a side of sour cream, yogurt, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 150mg
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Vitamin C: 20mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly denser. You may need to add a bit more liquid to the batter to maintain the right consistency.
  2. Can I add other vegetables to the batter? Absolutely! Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to chop them finely or grate them to ensure they cook evenly within the batter.
  3. Can I make these pancakes ahead of time? Yes, these pancakes can be made ahead of time. You can reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving. They store well in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
  4. What kind of cheese works best in this recipe? You can use any cheese that melts well. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are great options. If you like a sharper flavor, you can try using feta or goat cheese.

Tips for Making the Best Savory Vegetable and Cheese Pancakes:

  1. Ensure the Yeast is Active:
    • If your yeast mixture doesn’t foam or bubble after 10 minutes, the yeast may be expired or the water too hot. Make sure to use fresh yeast and lukewarm water to get the perfect rise.
  2. Chop Vegetables Finely:
    • To ensure even cooking, make sure the vegetables are finely chopped or grated. Larger chunks may take longer to cook or create uneven textures in the pancakes.
  3. Don’t Overmix the Batter:
    • Once you’ve added the flour and yeast, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in tough, chewy pancakes. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
  4. Rest the Batter:
    • Allowing the batter to rest for 30 minutes helps activate the yeast and gives the pancakes a lighter, fluffier texture.
  5. Use the Right Skillet Temperature:
    • Keep the skillet at medium heat. Too high, and the pancakes will burn before they cook through; too low, and they will take too long to cook, becoming dense. Medium heat ensures a nice golden exterior with a soft, fluffy interior.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration:
    Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing:
    These savory pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place a sheet of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking, then store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the oven or a skillet when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion:

Savory Vegetable and Cheese Pancakes are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a healthy meal packed with vegetables, protein, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making these pancakes for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese to create your perfect version. They are easy to store, reheat, and enjoy throughout the week, making them an excellent meal-prep option.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these hearty, flavorful pancakes with your family and friends!