How to make Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes

The gentle warmth of the kitchen, the vibrant hues of freshly harvested carrots, and the subtle bite of spring onions come together to create a dish that is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body. Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes are a delightful twist on the traditional pancake, offering a savory option that is both grounding and invigorating. These pancakes are a celebration of seasonal produce and a testament to the versatility of simple ingredients.

Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Japanese

Calories: 325

Ingredients Equipment Method Video

Ingredients

  

• 3 large carrots grated
• 6 spring onions diced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• 200 g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp bi-carbonate soda
• 25 g melted butter
• 200 ml milk
• 1 egg

Equipment

• 1 frying pan

Method

 

1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a frying pan and add the diced spring onions with the cumin seeds, ground cumin and paprika. Cook for a few minutes before adding the grated carrots and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for a further 5 minutes before transferring to a mixing bowl and leave to cool.
2. In another bowl, add the milk, egg and melted butter (once cooled) and whisk together until combined.
3. Add the self-raising flour and bi-carb to the carrot mixture and combine, to look like below:
4. Add the milk, egg and butter liquid and mix to form a batter, like below:
5. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a non-stick frying pan and place equal amounts of mixture to form your pancakes (about 1 cm thick) and cook on a low-medium heat for a few minutes (depending on the type of cooker/hob you have) until the bottom side is nice and golden.
6. Flip the pancakes around and cook the other side until golden. Make sure the pancakes are cooked through.
7. Enjoy – hot or cold! Remember all of this is to individual taste, so add whatever you like to the mix – it worked for me!

Video

Cooking tips

Cooking Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes is a delightful experience, akin to painting with the palette of flavors that nature offers. The sweetness of carrots and the sharpness of spring onions create a symphony on the palate. My advice is to grate the carrots finely for even cooking and to slice the spring onions thinly to distribute their flavor throughout.

The batter should be of pourable consistency but not too runny; it’s the canvas that holds our colorful ingredients together. A non-stick pan lightly brushed with oil is your best friend here, ensuring golden pancakes without the need for excess fat.

There’s a certain joy in flipping these pancakes, watching them puff slightly, the edges crisping to perfection. It’s a simple pleasure, turning humble vegetables into a meal that feels both comforting and uplifting. Serve them hot from the skillet, perhaps with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce, and watch as they bring smiles to the table.

Serving suggestion

Serving Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes is an invitation to savor the fresh, vibrant flavors of the garden in each bite. I find joy in arranging them on a platter, garnished with delicate herbs or a light drizzle of sauce that complements their earthy sweetness. There’s a certain satisfaction in watching friends and family tuck into these colorful creations, their faces lighting up with the simple pleasure of a meal made with care.

These pancakes are versatile; they can be a canvas for your culinary creativity. Try pairing them with a tangy yogurt dip or a sweet chili sauce to add a delightful contrast. The act of serving them becomes a shared experience, a conversation starter, and a way to connect over the love of good food. It’s a reminder that the best meals are not just about nourishment but about the memories and emotions they evoke.

Top 5 FAQs about Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes

• What is the ideal batter consistency for Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes?

  The batter should be thick enough to hold the grated carrots and chopped spring onions together, yet fluid enough to spread slightly on the pan. It’s similar to a traditional pancake batter but may require slight adjustments depending on the moisture content of the vegetables. Aim for a pourable consistency that still retains some body.

• Can the pancakes be made ahead of time and reheated?

  Yes, these pancakes can be prepared in advance. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re heated through and regain some crispness. Alternatively, they can be warmed in an oven or toaster oven. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but this method works well for meal prep or leftovers.

• How can you ensure the pancakes are cooked evenly without burning?

  Cook the pancakes on a medium heat to allow the center to cook through without burning the exterior. If the pan is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked. A non-stick pan lightly greased with oil helps prevent burning and sticking. Flip the pancakes when bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set.

• Are there any variations to the basic recipe that can add different flavors or textures?

  Absolutely! You can experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the batter, such as cilantro, dill, or cumin for a flavor twist. Some may also enjoy a bit of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes. For added texture, consider incorporating finely chopped nuts or seeds for a pleasant crunch.

• What are some serving suggestions for Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes?

  These pancakes are quite versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a creamy element, while a drizzle of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce can provide a burst of flavor. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad or as part of a larger brunch spread.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes are a delightful expression of culinary simplicity and seasonal freshness. They embody the essence of spring with their bright colors and fresh flavors, offering a savory twist on a typically sweet dish. The natural sweetness of the carrots paired with the sharpness of the spring onions creates a harmonious balance that can be enjoyed at any meal.

These pancakes are not just about taste; they represent a mindful approach to cooking, where the process is as rewarding as the outcome. They encourage us to incorporate more vegetables into our meals in innovative ways, making them both healthful and appealing. The versatility of the recipe allows for various adaptations, ensuring that it can be tailored to different tastes and dietary needs.

Moreover, the act of serving these pancakes is an opportunity to gather and share, to create moments of connection over a meal prepared with intention. Whether they are dressed up with elegant garnishes for a special brunch or served simply with a dollop of yogurt for a quick weekday breakfast, Carrot and Spring Onion Pancakes are a testament to the joy of cooking with seasonal produce and the pleasure of eating food that is both good for the body and the soul.