Hortobágyi Pancakes (Savory Crepes)
Ingredients:
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 500ml (2 cups) milk
- 3 large eggs
- 30ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- Pinch of salt
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground pork or beef
- 30ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g (1 cup) sour cream
- 30g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
- 150ml (2/3 cup) chicken broth
- 2 tbsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Time:
Total estimated time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crepes
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, and oil. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grease lightly with oil. Pour a small ladle (about 60ml or 1/4 cup) of batter into the skillet and swirl to cover the pan evenly. Cook each crepe for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges begin to lift. Flip and cook for an additional minute. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes when done.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion, sauté till translucent, then add garlic. Mix in the ground meat, cook until browned. Sprinkle with paprika, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, simmer until thickened. Fold in the sour cream, heating through without boiling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pancakes
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Take each crepe and spoon a portion of the meat mixture onto one side. Roll up the crepe and place it seam side down in a greased baking dish. Continue this process until all the crepes are filled.
Step 5: Bake
Pour any remaining sauce over the arranged crepes in the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven, allowing to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional sour cream or freshly chopped parsley for embellishment.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting the exquisite Hortobágyi Pancakes! This dish is a testament to the versatility and depth found within Hungarian cuisine. With each bite, savor the harmonious blend of textures and flavors—a true nod to tradition with your own kitchen as the backdrop. May these savory crepes find a place at your table, offering warmth and a delightful culinary journey. Enjoy and share with loved ones!
