Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• A pinch of salt
• Butter or oil, for cooking
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Fresh berries, for garnish
• Maple syrup or honey, for serving
• Vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Separate the Eggs:
   • Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the egg whites in a large mixing bowl and the yolks in a separate smaller bowl.
2. Prepare the Batter:
   • In the bowl with the egg yolks, add the milk and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
   • Sift the flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture and whisk until smooth.
3. Beat the Egg Whites:
   • Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy.
   • Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the Mixtures:
   • Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Cook the Pancakes:
   • Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
   • Using a ring mold or by freehand, spoon the batter onto the skillet to form thick, tall pancakes. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden and the top is slightly set.
   • Gently flip the pancakes and cook for another 4-5 minutes until both sides are golden and the pancakes are cooked through.
6. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a serving plate.
   • Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries.
   • Serve with maple syrup or honey, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Tips:

• For extra height, you can use metal ring molds to shape the pancakes while cooking.
• Be patient and cook the pancakes on low heat to ensure they cook through without burning.

Enjoy your fluffy Japanese soufflé pancakes!