Blina - A "Deutsch, Not Dutch" Pancake
A light and fluffy German-style pancake with subtle sweetness, perfect for breakfast or brunch, suited for those who enjoy tender, yeasted batter specialties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the yeast in the lukewarm water and set aside.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and sugar into a bowl.
- Add enough water to the mixture to create a thin batter, then stir in the yeast mixture and the egg.
- Let the batter set overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter batter, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have cake yeast, you can substitute with 1 packet of active dry yeast; just activate it in the lukewarm water as instructed. Allowing the batter to sit overnight enhances the flavor and texture, making for a more delicious pancake. To achieve the ideal consistency, add water gradually until you reach a thin batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve blina topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet touch. They pair beautifully with fresh fruits like berries or bananas and can be enjoyed with a side of *Rich Lemon Filling for added zing. For a savory twist, consider serving with smoked salmon or yogurt covered nuts for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in a toaster for a quick crisp. If you prefer a softer texture, microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blina - A "Deutsch, Not Dutch" Pancake contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1781mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add some to ensure the batter holds together well. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How can I make these pancakes sweeter?
If you prefer sweeter blina, you can increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons or add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. You can also serve with syrup, honey, or fruit preserves to enhance the sweetness.
Can I freeze blina for later use?
Absolutely! Once cooled, stack the blina with parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated directly from the freezer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).