Crepes, the thin and delicate pancakes that originated in France, have become a beloved staple in cuisines all around the world. While they are often associated with sweet fillings such as Nutella or strawberries and cream, savory crepes offer a whole new world of flavor combinations and global influences.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore some of the most delicious and unique savory crepes from different parts of the world. So buckle up and get ready to discover the flavors of 3. Savory Crepes from Around the World.
The French Influence: Classic Crepes with a Twist
It’s impossible to talk about crepes without mentioning their French origins. The classic French crepe is made with a simple batter of flour, eggs, milk, and butter, and is traditionally filled with ham, cheese, and mushrooms. However, modern chefs have put their own spin on this traditional dish, incorporating a variety of ingredients and flavors from around the world.
How to Make the Perfect French-style Crepes
To make French-style crepes, start by whisking together 1 cup of flour, 2 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until it forms a smooth batter. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour ¼ cup of the batter into the pan, swirling it around to create a thin and even layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to brown, then flip and cook for another minute on the other side. Fill with your choice of savory ingredients and fold or roll the crepe before serving.
Flavorful Fillings to Try
While the classic ham, cheese, and mushroom filling is always a crowd-pleaser, why not try mixing things up with these tasty options:
- Spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomato crepes
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese crepes
- Ratatouille-filled crepes with goat cheese
- Chicken, mushroom, and pesto crepes
The Italian Twist: Crepe Cannelloni
Italy is known for its delicious pasta dishes, so it’s no surprise that they have their own take on savory crepes. Crepe cannelloni is a popular dish in Italy, where crepes are used in place of pasta to create a lighter and more delicate version of the classic Italian dish.
How to Use Crepes as Cannelloni Sheets
To make crepe cannelloni, follow the recipe above for French-style crepes but make them slightly thicker. Once cooked, lay out the crepes and fill with your choice of ingredients, such as spinach and ricotta or beef and mushroom. Roll up the crepe and place it seam side down in a baking dish, then cover with marinara sauce and bake in the oven until heated through and the edges are crispy.
Examples of Delicious Fillings
The beauty of crepe cannelloni is that you can get creative with the fillings, just like traditional cannelloni. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Prosciutto and mozzarella crepe cannelloni with basil pesto
- Shrimp, spinach, and feta crepe cannelloni
- Vegetarian crepe cannelloni with grilled vegetables and marinara sauce
- Beef, mushroom, and béchamel crepe cannelloni
The Asian Fusion: Korean Kimchi Crepes
While crepes may not be traditionally associated with Asian cuisine, chefs have found ways to incorporate the delicate pancakes into their dishes. One example is the Korean kimchi crepe, which combines the familiar flavors of tangy, spicy kimchi with the light and airy texture of crepes.
How to Use Kimchi in Crepes
To make kimchi crepes, start by mixing ½ cup of flour, 1 egg, ¼ cup of milk, and ¼ cup of water together until smooth. Add ½ cup of chopped kimchi to the batter and mix well. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour ¼ cup of the batter into the pan, swirling it around to create a thin layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to brown, then flip and cook for another minute on the other side. Serve with your choice of protein and vegetables, such as bulgogi beef and stir-fried veggies.
Flavorful Combinations to Try
Once you have your kimchi crepe base, the filling options are endless. Here are some mouth-watering ideas to inspire you:
- Spicy chicken and broccoli kimchi crepes
- Tofu and shiitake mushroom kimchi crepes
- Pork belly and cabbage kimchi crepes
- Fried rice and vegetable kimchi crepes
The Latin Twist: Savory Crepes de Papa from Colombia
Colombian cuisine is known for its bold and colorful flavors, and their version of savory crepes is no exception. Crepes de papa, or potato crepes, are a traditional dish made with mashed potatoes and stuffed with a variety of fillings.
How to Make Crepes de Papa
Start by mashing boiled potatoes and mixing them with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour ¼ cup of the potato mixture into the pan, spreading it out to form a thin layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges start to brown, then carefully flip and cook for another minute on the other side. Fill with your choice of savory ingredients, such as ground beef, chicken, or vegetables, and fold the crepe over like a sandwich before serving.
Delectable Fillings to Sample
Crepe de papa is a versatile dish that can be filled with a wide range of flavors. Here are some tasty options to try:
- Chicken, avocado, and black bean crepes
- Colombian-style pork and tomato crepes
- Crepes de papa with chorizo and scrambled eggs
- Sweet potato and black bean crepes topped with salsa and guacamole
The American Influence: Savory Breakfast Crepes
While crepes may have originated in France, Americans have put their own spin on the dish, creating breakfast-inspired crepes that are perfect for any time of day. These hearty and filling crepes are often filled with traditional breakfast items like eggs, bacon, and cheese, making them the ultimate comfort food.
How to Make Savory Breakfast Crepes
To make savory breakfast crepes, follow the recipe above for French-style crepes but add a pinch of sugar to the batter for a slightly sweeter flavor. Once cooked, fill the crepes with your choice of breakfast fillings, such as scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese. Roll up the crepes and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.
Delicious Filling Ideas
The great thing about breakfast crepes is that you can customize them to your liking. Here are some ideas to get your taste buds buzzing:
- Huevos rancheros crepes with refried beans, eggs, and salsa
- Breakfast burrito-inspired crepes with scrambled eggs, avocado, and bacon
- Smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill crepes
- Crepes filled with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and honey
Savory Crepes from Around the World: FAQs
- What is the difference between a crepe and a pancake?
- Crepes are typically thinner and more delicate than pancakes, with a larger diameter. They also use less sugar and butter in the batter.
- Can I make crepes ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make crepes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
- What is the best type of pan to use for making crepes?
- A non-stick skillet is best for making crepes, as it allows for easy flipping and prevents the crepes from sticking to the pan.
- Can I use gluten-free flour to make crepes?
- Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in most crepe recipes.
- Are savory crepes healthy?
- It depends on the filling and ingredients used. Crepes themselves are relatively low in calories, but fillings like cheese, bacon, and cream can add to the overall calorie count.
In Conclusion
Crepes may have started as a simple French dish, but these thin and delicate pancakes have evolved to incorporate flavors and techniques from all around the world. From classic French-style crepes to Asian-inspired kimchi crepes, there’s a savory crepe out there for every palate and taste preference. So why not try your hand at making one of these delicious dishes and embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of 3. Savory Crepes from Around the World? Bon appétit!
