| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 312 | 12g | 5g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 2g | 8g | 0.30g |
I must tell you about a delightful recipe that has been such a joy to create. It fuses the hearty comfort of American pancakes with a delightful Indian twist. The Sweet Chironji Pancakes not only allow us to explore a cross-cultural breakfast delight, but also bring to the table the nutritious benefits of Chironji seeds. When making these pancakes, think luscious bites filled with enchanting flavors, topped with a colorful array of fresh fruit. It’s a recipe that reflects my deep-rooted connection with both my Californian ethos and Gujarati heritage, creating a plateful of cuisine-blending magic.
An Ode to Health and Flavor
As someone who appreciates nutritious food, I was eager to create a recipe that went beyond simple taste gratification. As many are unaware, Chironji seeds are a staple in Indian cuisine, and not only do they add a unique nutty texture and slight sweet tinge to the pancakes, but they also bring a plethora of health benefits. Packed with protein and fiber, these seeds are also known to improve digestion, promote skin health, and even boost immunity. The assorted fruits on top add a burst of vitamins, making these pancakes a powerhouse of nutrition.
Journey into Fusion
Creating the Sweet Chironji Pancakes was a culinary journey that I cherished. To me, it is a blend of two worlds— the comforting familiarity of American-style pancakes and the exciting allure of Gujarati ingredients. For those who’ve tasted the traditional Gujarati Puran Poli or the classic American pancake, this dish may hold familiar notes but with a refreshing twist. The interplay of flavors and textures in this dish is a testament to the charm and possibility of Indian-American fusion cuisine.
If you enjoy pairing your pancakes with a side, consider perhaps, a savory curry to offset the sweetness. A dish like simple curry sauce could bring an interesting balance to your breakfast or brunch, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The Sweet Chironji Pancakes are not just a meal; they are a celebration of fusion, a testament to the power of food in bringing cultures together. Whether enjoyed with family, like my husband Faisal and our two sons, or savored alone, it promises an explosion of taste, health, and happiness.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter
- 1 cup of Chironji (Buchanania lanzan) seeds
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, for cooking
- 2 cups of mixed fresh fruit (such as berries, sliced bananas, or peaches) for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Method
Step One
Firstly, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Stir everything together until it’s evenly distributed.
Step Two
In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Ensure you beat the eggs so they are thoroughly blended in with the buttermilk and melted butter.
Step Three
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir it all together, avoiding overmixing. Some clumps of flour are okay and expected in this step.
Step Four
Add the Chironji seeds to the mixture, folding them in gently. As these seeds have a mild, nutty flavor, they will add richness to the pancakes.
Step Five
Heat up a large, non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with the vegetable oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.
Step Six
Repeat this process with the rest of the batter, adding more vegetable oil to the pan as needed. You should be able to make around 12 pancakes with this recipe.
Step Seven
Serve the pancakes warm, topping them with your choice of fresh fruit. Drizzle a generous amount of maple syrup over the top to finish.
Step Eight
Enjoy your sweet Chironji pancakes as a delicious breakfast treat or a heartwarming dessert. Don’t forget to share!
