If you needed another reason to treat yourself, here it is!
Today is Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras, among other things.
But it's the sweet treat this day is known for, not the name, that gives it its reputation.
Shrove Tuesday is the last day in the Christian calendar before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, and comes from the word 'Shriven' meaning to seek absolution through confession.
It is celebrated across the world in various fashions, between Feb. 2 and March 9, depending on the date of Easter that particular year.
A staple in international celebrations is the consumption of sweet treats, particularly pancakes, which is said to be a result of the ruling in 600 A.D. by Pope St. Gregory that prohibited Christians from eating animal products during Lent.
This proclamation was later shared with St. Augustine of Canterbury, to enforce the same rules in England.
Eventually adopted throughout Europe and France, where they traditionally consume waffles, crepes and a dessert known as king day on the annual holiday.
However you choose to celebrate, or if you're just in it for the snacks, Sudbury.com wishes you a safe and happy Lenten season.
Traditional pancake recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 1/4 cups of milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional but delicious)
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in the microwave for 30 seconds, set aside. (or place in a small bowl in a conventional oven and remove the butter begins to bubble)
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt and baking power
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, butter and vanilla
- Create a dip in the centre of your dry flour mixture
- Pour the milk mixture into the centre of the dry mixture and begin blending the two
- Use a wire whisk to mix the two together until it is well combined (you don't want lumps, but thick is good. Stop stirring when bubbles begin to form and pop, so your pancakes stay fluffy)
- Allow the batter to rest while heating a lightly oiled (or buttered) skillet or griddle on medium heat
- Pour the batter or scoop it onto the griddle using a spoor or 1/4 cup measuring cup
- Cook each side for 3-6 minutes or until lightly brown
- Serve warm with the toppings of your choosing
Tips:
- Use a cooking surface that provides even heat distribution
- Allow your cooking surface to heat up prior to adding any batter
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes to activate the baking powder
- Use baking spray or butter, even on non-stick pans
- Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop your batter for uniform pancakes
- Don't fear a thick pancake, cook them slowly for fluffy results
- Flip your pancakes when bubbles start to form and pop on the top (uncooked side)
- Baking powder is NOT the same as baking soda
- Get creative with your toppings, milk choice for a new twist on an old favourite
