Recipes: How to make the perfect pancakes

Basic batter

Serves: 12 people

Master this basic batter for a super Pancake Day and enjoy with a variety of sweet and savoury toppings and fillings.

Ingredients:

• 150g (5oz) plain flour
• 2 medium eggs
• 300ml (1/2pt) semi skimmed milk
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil

Method:

1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Crack the eggs into the well and whisk, drawing in the flour from the sides of the bowl.
2. Gradually add the milk and continue whisking until you have a smooth batter. Leave to stand for 30 minutes. Line a baking tray with nonstick baking paper.
3. Preheat the oven to gas 1/4, 110°C, 90°C fan.
4. Brush a 20cm frying pan with a little oil and warm on the hob over medium heat. Add a tbsp of the batter to the pan, tipping gently until it coats the base in a thin layer.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden, then flip the pancake and cook the underside for 1 minute.
6. Transfer to the baking tray and keep warm in the oven.
7. Repeat to make 12 pancakes, adding a little oil to the pan before each addition.
8. Serve with your favourite topping. Why not try stewed rhubarb with soured cream and maple syrup, pear with chocolate sauce and hazelnuts, or blueberries and maple syrup.

Fruity buttermilk pancakes

Serves: 12 people

Ingredients:

• 150g self-raising flour
• 2 medium eggs
• 2tbsp honey
• 150ml buttermilk
• 1tbsp rapeseed oil + extra for frying
• 100g fresh blueberries/raspberries

Method:

1. Place the flour in a large bowl. Whisk in the eggs and honey, then gradually whisk in the buttermilk and 1 tbsp oil to form a thick batter.
2. Stir in the fruit.
3. Heat a little extra oil in a pan and, using a tablespoon, spoon some mixture into the pan to make 4 pancakes.
4. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes each side until golden and cooked through.
5. Repeat to make 12.

For more pancake ideas visit: realfood.tesco.com