What better way to explore the world than by pancakes, tracking (and tasting!) how these sumptuous treats change from region to region? So whether you prefer to wrap, roll or stuff yours, take some inspiration from our guide to the most delicious pancakes from across the globe.
Great Britain – Pancakes
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Traditionally topped with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a spoonful of sugar, the British pancake is made with three main ingredients: eggs, flour and milk. If you can master the art of flipping your pancake perfectly in the pan, you’ll be the talk of the town.
Served at markets, fairs and street food stalls (as well as at the kitchen table), poffertjes are made with a mixture of buckwheat and plain flour, yeast, milk and egg. Finished with a signature dollop of butter and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, these battered pancake puffs are the ultimate Dutch sweet treat.
Brazilian Tapioca may not look like your classic pancake but this street food staple is every bit as delicious. Made with tapioca flour, they’re often filled with cheese or grated coconut.
Who can resist the American pancake? Thick, round and fluffy, this breakfast dish is served with sweet and savoury toppings – or a mixture of the two such as streaky bacon and maple syrup.
Bigger, rounder and thinner than the British pancake (but otherwise not too dissimilar…) crêpes are a must-eat next time you’re visiting France. Topped with butter and sugar or stuffed with the likes of ham and cheese – this versatile food can be eaten at any time of day!
Towering above the traditional pancake height, Japanese soufflé pancakes are as bouncy and wobbly as you can imagine. Fresh whipped cream, sticky syrups and fruit are usually added to this fun dish.
This pancake-style flatbread has stood the test of time. Originally a staple food consumed many moons ago by poorer people; it is now a revered savoury snack that’s usually buttered with bacon fat and herbs. Where do we sign up?
Explore every inch of Italy:
China – Scallion pancakes (Cong You Bing)
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Forget your sugar and lemon, scallion pancakes are best served with soy! Made from dough, not batter, these delicious pancakes are aromatic, chewy and filled with spring onions.
Another country, another crepe-style pancake. Pannekoek is made from a very thin batter and topped with plenty of cinnamon sugar for the ultimate sweet and aromatic finish.
Crispy, hearty and brimming with delicious flavours, Bánh xèo is a stuffed rice pancake that’s super popular at street food markets. Take a bite and discover an abundance of ingredients like pork, prawns, beansprouts and other delicious vegetables.
You might be surprised to learn how easy it is to be vegan in many countries with meat-loving reputations. There’s more to Turkey than kebabs, and Germany’s bratwurst sausages are increasingly going veggie. Get a head start planning your next food-filled trip, as well as some suggestions for dishes you can try out now while we're stuck at home.
With more than two million people currently aged over ninety, Japan certainly must be doing something right when it comes to wellness. Featuring extracts from Be More Japan, here we share inspiration from the mindful philosophies and healthy habits central to Japanese life that you can incorporate into your every day.
