| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 310 | 10g | 5g | 48g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 3g | 8g | 0.22g |
There’s a certain magic in transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary, a transformation made even sweeter when it’s one’s own heritage shining through the culinary creation. One such slice of my own home kitchen sorcery is the Açaí Pancakes, a fruit based dish that blends the robust Tex-Mex flavors of my upbringing with the wholesome nutrition of one of Brazil’s most beloved superfoods.
A Nod to Tradition with a Twist
Being from Texas, a state known for its rich and varied gastronomic landscape, makes me no stranger to culinary experimentation. With these Açaí Pancakes, I’ve taken an evergreen classic – the American breakfast staple, the pancake, and lent it a vibrant Tex-Mex character by introducing the exotic flavor and deep purple hue of açaí berries. This fusion creates an enriched flavor profile that pays homage to the flavors I grew up with, as well as introducing a punch of antioxidants that açaí is known for.
A Healthy Bite of Heaven
Apart from their delightful taste, these pancakes pack a delightful nutritional punch. The açaí berries are a powerhouse of fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats. They’re also said to aid weight loss and are good for the skin. A versatile dish, these Açaí Pancakes offer a fantastic way to start a day with a burst of health and flavor, subsequently keeping you satiated for longer.
Take a look at this enriching recipe shared on MDPI, on the nutritional benefits of acai for a deeper dive into why it’s worth integrating this super berry into your diet.
Meal Combinations and Variations
As standalone pancakes, they’re a treat, but coupling them with a side of Spiced Scrambled Eggs and Tortilla Chips can elevate your meal to the next level. Together, they create a balanced breakfast bursting with Tex-Mex energy. Or, for tropical vibe, try them with a side of mango salsa.
We all have those recipes that are close to our hearts, and this one is definitely mine – a reflection and celebration of my southern roots, with a hint of Pan-American flair. Try these Açaí Pancakes and you too will find love at first bite. Bon Appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 1/4 cups of milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of açaí puree
- 1 cup mixed chopped fresh fruits (e.g. banana, strawberries, blueberries)
- Maple syrup, for serving
Method
Step One
Firstly, you want to prepare and pre-heat your pancake griddle to a medium heat. In a large bowl mix together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Step Two
In another bowl, whisk together the following ingredients: 1 1/4 cups of milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Once mixed, slowly fold this into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Step Three
Next, fold in the 1/2 cup of açaí puree. Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps is okay. This will ensure the pancakes stay fluffy.
Step Four
Using a 1/4 cup, scoop the batter onto the heated griddle. Cook until bubbles appear on the top and the sides look set, about 2-3 minutes. Then flip the pancakes and cook until the other side is golden brown, another 1-2 minutes.
Step Five
Once the pancakes are cooked, top them with the 1 cup of mixed fresh fruits and drizzle over some maple syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Improved with personal experience:
Step One
Start pre-heating your pancake griddle to medium heat. In a large bowl combine together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Step Two
In a separate bowl, briskly whisk together the 1 1/4 cups of milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Once this mixture is smooth, softly fold it into your large bowl of dry ingredients until just conjoined.
Step Three
Following this, gently incorporate the 1/2 cup of açaí puree into your mixture. It’s essential to avoid overmixing the batter – surprisingly, a few lumps within your mixture will help to keep your pancakes tender and light!
Step Four
Using a 1/4 cup measurement, portion the batter onto your heated griddle. Allow them to cook until bubbles begin to form on the surface and the sides become firm, this will likely take about 2-3 minutes. Afterwards, flip the pancakes and let them continue to cook until the opposite side also develops a golden-brown color, this will require an additional 1-2 minutes of cooking time.
Step Five
Congratulations, your pancakes are now ready! Top them off with your 1 cup of mixed chopped fresh fruits and don’t forget a hearty drizzle of maple syrup. Serve your Açaí Pancakes hot for the best experience. Enjoy your homemade, tropical breakfast!
