Today we’re going to explore the wonderful world of crepes. Up until a couple years ago, crepes were not very popular in Pakistan. However, you now see them in fancy restaurants and even delivery services. Though crepes originated from France, they are however now enjoyed in all parts of the world. Crepes are essentially a very thin pancake wrap with either sweet or savoury fillings.

Tools for Making Crepes

If you’re just starting to make crepes you probably want to go with a standard spatula and flat non-stick frying pan. The non-stick part is extremely important as the crepe wrapping is very delicate and you can’t afford for it to stick in the pan. For crepe experts, there are specific pans which are made of steel that heat quickly and evenly, upside down crepe pans and even electric crepe makers. So choose your weapon and let’s get started!

The Recipe

Basic Crepe Wrap and Assembly

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Directions:

  1. Combine the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, water, eggs and butter.
  2. Slowly add the liquid mixture to the flour mixture. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Heat a lightly oiled frying pan on medium heat.
  4. Pour the batter into the pan, about ¼ cup at a time. Circle the pan so that the batter spreads into an even, thin, circular shape.

Note: If you find this step difficult, you can always spread the batter with a spatula or spoon, but you’ll have better results with the circular technique. 

  1. Cook for approximately 2 minutes or until light brown, flip and cook the other side for about 1 minute.
  2. Remove from frying pan.
  3. To assemble the crepe, spread the mixture in the centre of the crepe wrap and fold over one side, followed by the other. Serve warm.

Fillings and Different Types of Crepes

Here are a few sweet and savoury crepes to get your imagination going. Sweet crepes make great breakfasts or desserts and a cheesy savoury crepe makes for a perfect lunch or dinner treat.

  • Chicken Crepes: Mix together cooked, small chicken cubes with cream cheese and green onions. If the mixture is too thick, add a few teaspoons of milk. This is great for a simple quick meal.
  • Mexican Crepes: Mix together cooked shredded chicken, salsa, corn and cilantro. Place on the crepe wrap and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. What could be better than this!
  • Coconut Brown Sugar: This mixture will give you a similar taste as the South Indian ‘Pastishapta’. Melt a little butter and mix in brown sugar so that the texture is creamy. Add in the same amount of coconut as the brown sugar and there you go!
  • Cream and Fruits: One of the simplest yet most satisfying crepe fillings, you simple chop up your favourite fruits and mix with fresh cream. If you like, you can add some powdered sugar for a little extra sweetness. Good combinations are berries with bananas, peaches and strawberries, or pineapples and mangoes.
  • Chocolate Spread with Nuts: Use any chocolate syrup, spread over the crepe wrapping and top with chopped almonds. You’re going to surprise your family and friends with this easy but delicious crepe!