Fluffy Japanese pancakes

Introduction

Fluffy Japanese pancakes, also known as soufflé pancakes, are a delightful treat that is famous for their airy, light texture and towering height. These pancakes are a popular breakfast dish in Japan and have gained international fame for their unique texture, which comes from folding whipped egg whites into the batter and cooking them slowly on low heat. They make for an impressive and delicious dish that is perfect for brunch or a special breakfast.

Ingredients

• Egg Yolks: 2 large
• Buttermilk: 200 ml (room temperature)
• Sugar: 4 tablespoons
• Vanilla Extract: ¼ teaspoon
• Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon (optional, but adds richness)
• All-purpose Flour: 210 g
• Baking Powder: 1½ teaspoons
• Egg Whites: 2 large (chilled)
• Vegetable Oil: for cooking

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and mayonnaise. Sift in the flour and baking powder, and mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the chilled egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the Mixtures: Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until the mixture is smooth and foamy.
4. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil. Place ring molds in the skillet and fill each mold about ⅔ full with batter. Cover the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes until the batter rises and the bottom is cooked.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and tongs, then cook for another 4 minutes with the lid on until both sides are golden brown and the pancakes are cooked through.
6. Serve: Gently remove the pancakes from the molds and serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as butter, maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries.

Conclusion

Fluffy Japanese pancakes are a bit more labor-intensive than traditional pancakes, but the results are well worth the effort. Their impressive height and delicate texture make them a perfect dish to wow your family or guests. Remember to enjoy them fresh for the best experience, as they may lose some of their fluffiness if left to sit for too long.