Syrniki Recipe: Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes You'll Love
Syrniki, also known as tvorog pancakes or cheese pancakes, are a beloved Russian and Eastern European breakfast treat. These fluffy pancakes are made with cottage cheese, eggs, and flour, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes. This recipe will guide you through creating perfect syrniki every time. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 14 oz (400g) cottage cheese: Choose a full-fat cottage cheese for the best texture and flavor. The drier the cottage cheese, the less flour you might need.
- 1 large egg: This binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar: Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Start with this amount and add more if needed to achieve a thick, but not sticky batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Optional additions: Raisins, chopped nuts, or citrus zest can elevate your syrniki.
- Oil or butter for frying: For a golden brown and crispy exterior.
- Sour cream or jam for serving: The perfect accompaniments to your delicious syrniki.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Batter:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the cottage cheese, egg, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. You can use a fork, a whisk, or even a potato masher to break up any large clumps of cottage cheese. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
- Adjust Consistency: If the batter is too wet, add a tablespoon or two more of flour. If it's too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or cream. The goal is a consistency that allows you to easily form small patties.
Cooking the Syrniki:
- Heat the Pan: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. You'll know it's ready when a drop of water sizzles on the surface.
- Form the Pancakes: Using your hands or a spoon, gently form the cottage cheese mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick.
- Cook the Syrniki: Place the syrniki on the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the syrniki from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Your Delicious Creation:
Serve your warm syrniki immediately with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite jam. They're equally delightful for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dessert.
Tips for Perfect Syrniki:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the syrniki tough.
- Use a non-stick pan: This prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.
- Adjust the sweetness: Add more or less sugar to suit your taste.
- Experiment with flavors: Add your favorite fruits, spices, or nuts to the batter.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make syrniki ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Q: Can I freeze syrniki?
A: Yes, cooked syrniki can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade syrniki! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
