People who have a sweet tooth will have the perfect excuse to tuck into some sugary treats today, with Pancake Day 2023 officially landing.
And while many will no doubt enjoy a dab of lemon juice, sugar, chocolate spread or jam on their pancakes today - others may be looking for something new and exciting for their taste buds to soak up.
So here at ChronicleLive, we thought we would hit our more daring readers with a couple of recipes from around the world, so you can try something new this Shrove Tuesday. After all, they do say that variety is the spice of life!
Read more: Seven places to go for pancakes in Newcastle this Shrove Tuesday
So without further ado, here are some exciting pancake toppings from around the world.
America - Buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and bacon
They say that everything is bigger stateside, and to a certain extent - pancakes are no exception. If you've ever visited the United States, you'll have seen first hand that the country plays host to 'pancake houses', stacking the fluffy buttermilk treats high for people to make their way through.
They even serve them as a breakfast dish in many diners! And one of the most well-established toppings for American-style pancakes, comes in the form of maple syrup and bacon. We know it sound's like a weird combination, but try it and you'll not regret it.
Austria - Kaizerschmarrn
Otherwise known as the Emperor's Mess, Kaizerschmarrn is an authentic Austrian variation on the pancake - and the recipe for which is usually passed down from generation to generation.
Fluffy pieces of disassembled pancake, usually served with nuts and fruit - the pancake was named after Franz Joseph I of Austria -who was truly fond of the shredded dessert or light lunch.
China - Scallion pancakes
Known natively as Cong you Bing, scallion pancakes are a Chinese delicacy which have been around for centuries. In Lehman's terms, the scallion pancake is simply what it's name suggests; a savoury flatbread containing minced scallions.
However, differing to Western pancakes, the Cong you Bing is made from dough, rather than batter before being pan fried.
Will you be giving one a go this afternoon? Let us know in the comments.
France - Crepes
English pancakes and Crepes don't differ too much, but the latter are razor thin and lashed with sweet fillings such as chocolate, whipped cream, peanut butter or fruit before being folded into quarters and consumed.
You can also make savoury crepes with cheese and even vegetables, should you want to.
Finland - Pannukakku
An oven baked pancake made from vanilla or custard flavoured batter - the Finns serve these treats usually at breakfast or as a dessert. Amazing when topped with cream or powdered sugar, Pannukakku has become a favourite not only in its native homeland, but also all across Europe.
Morocco - Msemen
A yeasted semolina dough which is thinly spread before being baked, Msemen is a Moroccan delight which are also highly popular in Tunisia and Algeria. Usually square in appearance, they can be enjoyed plain and fresh of the griddle or filled with a number of sweet or savoury flavourings.
Netherlands - Dutch Baby
You would certainly be forgiven for mistaking a Dutch Baby pancake for a giant Yorkshire Pudding - as the two look and taste identical. However, one is traditionally served with gravy and roast veg, where as the other is typically accompanied with melted butter, sugar and lemon.
Usually cooked in a cast iron skillet, the Dutch Baby pancake grows to a substantial size in the shape of a bowl before it's ready to serve - and it'll certainly stand out among the traditional English pancakes should you post one on your feed this Shrove Tuesday.
Sweden - Raggmunk
A Swedish comfort food favourite, Raggmunk are potato-based pancakes. Far from your traditional English pancake, these savoury snacks are both hearty and filling and are perfect when served with lingonberry jam and pork.
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