Pancakes (plaatkoekies)

This recipe for South African plaatkoekies is from Scottish origin. "Plaatkoekies" litteraly means "little cakes baked on the griddle". It should not be confused with pannekoek (pancake).

Plaatkoekies are quick and easy to make and taste great. It can be served with coffee or as a light meal. They are about 7 cm in diameter each.

Plaatkoekies they are very similar to New Zealands iconic pikelets, the main difference being that pikelets are larger and made from a somewhat thicker batter.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or ½ teaspoon vanilla

Method

  1. Whisk eggs and milk. Add sugar and optional nutmeg or vanilla.
  2. Sift flour, cream of tartare, baking soda and pinch of salt, whilst whisking with a fork.
  3. Add melted butter and keep whisking.
  4. Bake in a warm frying pan: Dropping tablespoons of mixture into the pan to form individual plaatkoekies.
  5. Turn when bubble start forming below the surface. Cook until both sides are golden brown.
  6. Serve immediately before it cools down.

Notes

Serving suggestions:

  • South African style, with grated cheese and an assortment of spreads such as Lyle's syrup, honey, butter, and Marmite (or New Zealand Vegemite).
  • The American way, with maple syrup and crunchy bacon for breakfast
  • With morning tea in the traditional New Zealand way, with jam and whipped cream.